There are many myths about acne. I commonly hear parents blame the teen because they eat too much chocolate or fatty food. I also hear that if only the teen would wash better the acne wouldn't happen.
So let's review why acne happens. First of all it is the parent's fault not the teens. Acne is hereditary. What is inherited is the tendency to make extra skin cells (follicular epidermal hyperproliferation) that then leads to plugging of the follicles. Also contributing to acne are hormones that increase sebum production and bacteria.
What can you do to help acne? First off I recommend a mild soap such as Dove or Cetaphil. Wash the face gently two times a day. Pat the face dry. Harsh soaps and scrubbing are not recommended. Next I would recommend applying a cream with 5% benzoyl peroxide in it to the parts of the face that break out. (Benzoyl peroxide is awesome! Not only is it over the counter but it is an anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and it decreases sebum and causes desquamation.) Your teen does not need to use a lot of cream, just a little on the parts of the face that break out. The most common side effect is drying of the skin.
All acne therapy (benzoyl peroxide and prescriptions) takes about two months of daily use before results are noticeable. Treatment helps prevent future break outs. There is nothing to put on a pimple to make it go away faster once you have it. It is difficult for teens to use something daily when results aren't visible immediately. Encourage your teen to stick with it!
If this is not helping or if you have concerns about your teen's acne please make an appointment.
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