Acne treatments for teenagers are varied and, depending on the severity, can be as simple as a proper facial wash. Adolescents are the most prone to acne, given that puberty is the period in our lives when we experience the highest level of hormonal change. It is also the period when a person becomes very conscious of how he or she looks. It is not surprising then that teenagers are often worried about pimples and can be expected to use drastic measures to get rid of their zits.

Numerous acne treatments are already available and teenagers need not be stressed by bumps in their skin; a reaction that can make pimples worse since stress creates havoc on the hormones and increases skin breakouts. For the worried teenager, here are some tips on keeping that acne under control.

The simplest remedy

If the acne is still in its initial stage, a number of home-made remedies might just do the trick. Mixing water with vinegar and salt to make a facial wash can help alleviate pimples. If you prefer better-smelling remedies, massaging the face with lemon skin has also been proven effective. Garlic and toothpaste dabbed on pimples can also work overnight if you're in a hurry. Most of all, just keeping your skin clean by washing at least twice a day can help prevent the onset of zits.

Over-the-counter options

If pimples have already developed into pustules (zits that contain pus), a less-than-basic remedy is already in order. Most topical acne treatments are available over the counter. Some of these are topical antibiotics and antibacterials. The most popularly used antibacterials for acne are those that contain benzoyl peroxide; while antibiotics, like erythromycin and tetracycline, are recommended if the acne is already infected. Although most of these solutions can be purchased without prescription, paying a visit to a dermatologist just to be sure that you're picking the right remedy can go a long way towards an effective cure.

Severe cases

For pimples that have already multiplied, have heights and contain pus, a more advanced solution is needed. If the acne is already severe, self-medication is not recommended. Going to a skin specialist is the first step that should be taken. If the specialist deemed it necessary to use advance methods such as phototherapy and laser treatment, then you should have a detailed discussion of the pros and cons of these procedures with your specialist.

Acne treatments are available to teenagers in various forms, but there are also things that they can do so that they can avoid having to go through any treatment at all. A healthy lifestyle with proper diet, enough sleep, constant intake of water and proper hygiene must be observed to prevent pimples from even starting. Prevention is still the key and there is no harm in trying to make healthy living a habit.