Teens and health

Acne

Acne is probably the world's most common skin condition. Almost everyone experiences some acne problems between the ages of 11 and 17. And for many, it persists into adulthood. It's seldom serious medically, but it is serious for the young person whose appearance is becoming increasingly important to his or her self esteem.

• YNHH Health Library: Acne

What is it?
Acne is a term we use to describe pimples or blackheads that appear on the face, chest, upper back and shoulders.

Who gets it?
As we mentioned, almost everyone gets it. Boys usually have more severe cases while many girls experience intermittent acne tied to their monthly menstrual cycle. Girls are also more likely to develop acne from using cosmetics.

What causes it?
Acne's appearance is linked to physical changes in boys' and girls' bodies as they enter puberty. The hormones that trigger maturation also wake up the oil (saebaceous) glands in the skin. Androgen (male hormones) has the biggest effect on these glands, which is why boys tend to have more severe acne. Girls have androgen in their bodies also, but not as much as boys.

Oil glands are found in the body with the body's hair shafts. As boys and girls mature, the cells that line these shafts shed a lot, and when the cells mix with the increased oil production, the hair follicles plug.

The clogged follicles provide a breeding ground for a common bacteria called P. acnes, which causes the redness and inflammation associated with acne pimples and blackheads.

What you can do at home

1. Wash your face with a mild soap as often as necessary to keep your face clean, but don't scrub. Vigorous washing can irritate your skin and make acne breakouts worse.
2. Don't squeeze or pinch pimples and blackheads. It will only make things worse and may cause cause scarring.
3. Nonprescription products:
   • Try lotions or creams containing benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria associated with P. acnes. Be sure and use it continuously while you have acne. It usually takes about two weeks before you'll notice any improvement.
   • Salicyclic acid products may also help unclog pores. It also must be used continuously to be effective.
4. Although extensive research has not established any link between any kind of food and acne, if you find eating certain foods results in pimples, avoid eating that food.
5. Keep your hair clean and off your face as much as possible since the oils from your hair will only make things worse.
6. Use makeup products and toiletries that are advertised as "noncomedogenic."

See also:

• YNHH Health Library: The Growing Child: Adolescent (13 to 18 Years)

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Reviewed: Richard Antaya, MD, April, 2002
Last revised: June 6, 2007 (dh)

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.