Attacking Teen Acne

Are you eliminating chocolate, pizza and sodas to help keep your child’s acne under control? There are many myths about ways to improve acne, but how do you know what works and when to seek professional help?

Acne — which may appear on the face, back, arms, shoulders and other areas of the body — is an embarrassing condition of the skin that socially hinders many teens by weakening self-confidence. Acne can occur because of hormonal changes during puberty and is a trying part of adolescence for many teens. However, there are legitimate ways to help clear your child’s skin.

Finding What Works

Some teens have found that practicing a healthy diet may improve their acne to a certain degree, but avoiding certain foods or beverages will not necessarily help the condition. Sun exposure also is thought to mask acne temporarily, but it does not offer a permanent solution, and the long-term effects of sun damage are not worth the increased risk of skin cancer.

“Many over-the-counter products can help clear acne,” said Joanna Burch, MD, pediatric dermatologist at Children's Hospital Colorado. “But for numerous teens, professional help and medication are needed to clear the skin and restore confidence.”

Dr. Burch recommends trying benzoyl peroxide gel and an oil-free cleanser to eliminate acne. Avoid touching the face, and never squeeze a blemish, which can transfer bacteria and make the condition worse. If over-the-counter products do not produce desired results, ask your family doctor or pediatrician for a referral to a pediatric dermatologist at Children’s.

For more information, search our site for more information on teen acne.