How to Help Your Teen Banish Breakouts

Acne is one of the most frustrating issues teenagers have to face. And it doesn’t just affect their skin—it can also impact their mood and self-esteem and it can be challenging to find a solution that helps treat it. But why is acne so common during the teen years? And what can you and your teen do about it?

We’ll explore why acne is so common during the teen years, the top triggers for breakouts, treatments that work and when to ditch those over-the-counter remedies and see a dermatologist.

Why Do Teens Break Out So Often?

Acne and teenagers often go hand in hand. For most teens, it tends to show up between the ages of 12 and 17. That’s because puberty brings a lot of hormonal changes, with testosterone and other androgens taking the lead. As these hormones increase, they stimulate the sebaceous glands—the ones that produce oil—to work overtime, resulting in an excess of oil that your skin doesn’t know how to manage. When all this oil mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria, it can clog pores, causing inflammation, creating an ideal environment for acne to develop.

But it’s not just hormones that are responsible for the breakouts—stress is another major factor. Between school, social pressures, and just growing up, stress levels can spike, which can lead to even more acne flare-ups.

Teen Acne Triggers Dermatologists See Most

While hormones are the main culprit behind teen acne, other factors also contribute to breakouts. Genetics plays a big role—if you or your partner had acne during your teen years, it’s likely your teen may experience it as well, since acne tends to run in families.

Stress is another key factor. Between school pressures, social situations, and extracurricular activities, teens face a lot of stress, which can trigger breakouts. That’s why flare-ups often occur during high-pressure times like exams or big events.

Some sugary snacks, soda and processed foods can cause insulin spikes, leading the skin to produce more oil, which can cause an acne breakout. Some studies suggest that dairy products may also be linked to acne. However, research is still ongoing to determine the exact connection.

Changes in the environment can also trigger breakouts. Humidity, temperature fluctuations and exposure to pollutants can irritate the skin and lead to clogged pores. Also, the use of certain products, like hair gels or lotions, may contribute to acne if they come into contact with the skin.

Sometimes Over-the-Counter Products Aren’t Enough

At the first sign of an acne breakout, many teens and their parents will turn to over-the-counter products that typically contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur, which can help control mild acne by reducing bacteria and unclogging pores. However, these products don’t always work for moderate to severe cases, and they may take weeks or even months to show results. They can also sometimes cause irritation or dryness if not used correctly.

When over-the-counter treatments aren’t enough, it may be time to see a dermatologist. who can offer a more personalized treatment plan. They also have access to stronger, prescription-grade treatments that can address the underlying causes of acne more effectively.

How Dermatologists Treat Moderate to Severe Teen Acne

If your teen’s acne is moderate to severe, a dermatologist can offer a range of treatments tailored to your teen’s specific needs. They often start with powerful prescription creams like retinoids, which help unclog pores and reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, oral antibiotics may be prescribed to combat bacteria, or oral contraceptives for girls to regulate hormones. For stubborn cystic acne, isotretinoin (Accutane) might be recommended, though it requires careful monitoring due to its strong effects. Dermatologists also offer non-invasive options like chemical peels and light therapy. These treatments can be an effective option when combined with other therapies.

Managing Acne Breakouts at Home

While professional treatment is key to clearing up acne, there are also steps you can take at home to support your teen’s skin health, including:

Establishing a Consistent Skincare Routine

Encourage your teen to wash their face gently twice a day with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser since scrubbing too hard or over-cleansing can irritate the skin and make acne worse. It’s also important to use a moisturizer that’s designed for acne-prone skin—one that will keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores or causing more breakouts.

Maintaining a Balanced Diet

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, a low-glycemic diet filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains and staying hydrated throughout the day may help with acne breakouts.

Finding Ways to Reduce Stress

Helping your teen manage stress with relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or physical activity can reduce stress and improve overall skin health. Getting enough sleep is just as important; lack of rest can make acne worse, so make sure they’re getting their zzzz’s.

Treatments for Teen Acne at Schweiger Dermatology Group

At Schweiger Dermatology Group, we understand the challenges that come with persistent acne breakouts, especially during the teenage years. That’s why our specialized dermatology experts offer a range of solutions for teen acne, including the latest advanced therapies. To schedule an appointment, book online or call 844-DERM-DOC.