The teenage years bring many changes, and for most adolescents, skin changes are front and center. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty often lead to increased oil production, clogged pores, and the appearance of acne.
While these skin issues are a normal part of development, they can impact self-esteem and confidence during this formative time.
At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, our Board-Certified Dermatologists understand the challenges teens face with their changing skin. We’ve compiled this guide to help teenagers and their parents navigate the sometimes confusing world of skincare and acne management.
Understanding Teen Skin
Teen skin differs from adult skin in several important ways. Hormonal changes stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, leading to increased sebum production. The cell turnover rate is faster in adolescents, with skin renewing itself more quickly than adult skin.
Teenagers may also experience different sensitivities to products and environmental factors, and while their skin typically heals faster, it may be more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria can multiply in these clogged pores, leading to inflammation and the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Building a Basic Skincare Routine
A consistent skincare routine is fundamental for managing teen skin concerns. Here’s a simple, effective regimen:
Morning Routine
- Cleanse: Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that removes excess oil without stripping the skin
- Treat: Apply any prescribed topical medications or treatments
- Moisturize: Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer
- Protect: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher (crucial even for acne-prone skin)
Evening Routine
- Cleanse: Remove makeup and wash away the day’s buildup
- Treat: Apply acne treatments as directed
- Moisturize: Replenish skin with the same oil-free moisturizer
Key Ingredients for Teen Skin
When selecting skincare products, several ingredients can be particularly beneficial for teen skin concerns.
- Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, penetrates pores to remove excess oil and exfoliate dead skin cells.
- Benzoyl peroxide works by killing acne-causing bacteria while helping to remove excess oil and dead skin cells.
- Niacinamide reduces inflammation and redness while supporting the skin barrier.
- Glycolic acid provides gentle exfoliation as an alpha-hydroxy acid.
For hydration without clogging pores, look for non-comedogenic moisturizers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Common Skincare Mistakes Teens Make
Avoiding common pitfalls can significantly improve skin health. Many teens over-wash their skin, cleansing more than twice daily, which can strip natural oils and trigger even more oil production.
Using harsh products like aggressive scrubs and astringents can damage the skin barrier and worsen irritation. Picking or popping pimples is particularly problematic as it can lead to scarring and spread bacteria deeper into the skin.
Another mistake is skipping moisturizer—even oily skin needs hydration, and without it, skin can become dehydrated and produce more oil to compensate. Finally, inconsistency in skincare routine prevents lasting results, as improvement requires regular, consistent care.
When to See a Dermatologist
While many teens can manage mild acne with over-the-counter products, certain situations warrant professional care. If your teen has persistent moderate to severe acne, it’s time to consult a dermatologist.
Similarly, acne that leaves marks or scars should be evaluated by a professional to prevent long-term skin damage. When acne begins to affect a teen’s self-esteem or leads them to avoid social activities, the psychological impact justifies seeking expert help.
Additionally, if the skin doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments after 6-8 weeks of consistent use, a dermatologist can offer more effective solutions.
Our Board-Certified Dermatologists at AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics offer a range of treatment options for teen acne, from prescription topicals and oral medications to advanced technologies.
Advanced Treatment Options
For teens with persistent or more severe acne, our dermatologists may recommend professional treatments, including:
- Accure: This innovative laser technology uses a specific wavelength to target the sebaceous glands, addressing acne at its source. The treatment selectively reduces sebum production while leaving surrounding tissues undamaged. Accure may be appropriate for teens with persistent acne that hasn’t responded well to other treatments.
- Prescription-strength topicals: These specialized formulations include retinoids that help normalize skin cell turnover, topical antibiotics that reduce acne-causing bacteria, and combination therapies that address multiple factors simultaneously. These medications are tailored to each patient’s specific needs and skin type.
- Oral medications: Systemic treatments can include antibiotics that reduce inflammation and bacteria, or hormonal therapies like certain birth control pills that regulate oil production. These options are carefully considered for teens who haven’t responded adequately to topical treatments.
- Chemical peels: These controlled exfoliation treatments use solutions that remove the outer layers of skin, unclog pores, and stimulate cell regeneration. Different strengths and formulations allow for customized treatment that targets acne and improves overall skin texture and tone.
- Extraction procedures: Performed by our Board-Certified Dermatologists, these careful procedures safely remove blackheads and whiteheads that haven’t responded to other treatments. Professional extraction prevents the damage and potential scarring that can result from at-home attempts.
Lifestyle Factors That Affect Teen Skin
Beyond skincare products, several lifestyle elements play a significant role in skin health. Diet can impact skin appearance—while research is ongoing, some studies suggest high-glycemic foods and dairy may worsen acne in certain individuals.
Quality sleep is essential as it supports skin healing and overall health, while high stress levels can trigger or worsen acne breakouts. Regular exercise benefits the skin by improving circulation and helping regulate hormones. Finally, proper hydration through adequate water intake supports overall skin health and function.
Supporting Teens Through Skin Struggles
Parents and caregivers can help teens navigate skin concerns by:
- Providing emotional support and understanding
- Helping establish and maintain a consistent skincare routine
- Avoiding criticism about skin appearance or skincare habits
- Scheduling an appointment with a Board-Certified Dermatologist when needed
Remember that most teen skin issues are temporary. With the right approach and professional guidance when necessary, teens can effectively manage acne and build healthy skincare habits that benefit them throughout life.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If your teen struggles with persistent acne or other skin concerns, the Board-Certified Dermatologists at AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics can help develop a personalized treatment plan. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward clearer, healthier skin.
