New Treatments Available

Of course, having had acne as a youth doesn't make you an instant expert. New medications and skin treatments are now available that enable most common acne conditions to be brought under control. Visiting a dermatologist is usually a good idea for any undiagnosed illness. Those spots that break out on your teenager's skin are probably acne, but there are other skin conditions that can mimic acne. Does your teen have acne? Talking with a dermatologist will give you a complete diagnosis, and also give you the widest variety of treatment options available.

Acne and Self Esteem

Acne can be a delicate subject to talk to your kids about, because they are likely to be embarrassed by their appearance, particularly if they have a lot of pimples, blackheads or severe acne. You know how best to approach your child, but basically you'll want to be supportive and caring. Educate yourself about the difference between myths and facts about acne: the myths about buttery foods, chocolate, or sex causing acne are now recognized to be comepletely false. Most likely, your teenager is already experimenting with everything he or she knows of to eliminate the acne. Even if they are unwilling to talk about it, it's probably one of their major concerns. Acne can affect self-esteem and socialization, and in severe cases can lead to depression and social withdrawal.

Acne and Self-Esteem

Let your teenager know that you are there for them and that you are willing to assist him or her with their acne. Verbalizing about your own adolescence may help and certainly can't hurt. It might give your teenager a more complete understanding of you, and a broader view on his own acne effects. Although it may be small comfort, remind your child that for most teenagers, acne is part of adolescence and they are not the only one. It is approximated that 85% of adolescents experience acne, and 40% have acne severe enough to seek treatment by a dermatologist.

Seek Medical Help

So does your teen experience acne? If you've already tried a few over-the-counter medications without success, suggest your child to go to a dermatologist. Although nothing may prevent acne, it is beneficial to wash the skin, keeping the pores clean and free from bacteria. Prescriptions can include oral medications, physical treatments, and creams and lotions that are put directly on the problem areas. These treatments can help reduce the acne while offering relief from the physical embarassment it causes. Fortunately, acne effects are short-lived. As your child ages the acne should become less of a problem, and by the time they are in their early 20s it will probably be a thing of the past. For young adults, acne can be difficult, but with your support, proper skin care, medicine and information, you can help your teen overcome this and many other challenges.