Teens are susceptible to acne because their hormones are changing rapidly as they go through puberty. This hormonal change can cause an overproduction of sebum, which is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands.
Acne, however common, is a medical condition that should be treated by a doctor. Acne may be an aesthetic problem but can cause emotional stress in the long run, which can potentially affect your teen’s future.
What is Acne?
Acne is a skin condition that is caused when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) infects the already clogged pores. Acne can occur on any part of the body with sebaceous glands but is most commonly found on the face, neck, chest, and back. Symptoms of acne include whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, cysts, and nodules.
Treatments for Teen Acne
Cosmetic dermatology deals with the enhancement of appearance through the treatment of skin conditions. There are several cosmetic procedures administered at a dermatologist’s clinic that can help treat and manage your teen’s acne. A comprehensive treatment program that includes lifestyle changes usually helps maximize the results of treatment.
Some of the cosmetic dermatology treatments that may help your teen include:
- Clinical Facials – Facials involve cleaning and exfoliating the skin to reduce congestion and improve the complexion of the skin.
- Chemical Peels – A glycolic peel uses glycolic acid, which is derived from sugar cane. Chemical peels work to remove the top layers of the skin – a method of exfoliation – to shed dead skin cells and reveal soft new skin. Glycolic acid peels are gentle and ideal for teen skin. Another light chemical peel, which is the beta lift peel, contains salicylic acid, which also lifts dead skin cells off the skin, and penetrates deep in the hair follicles and pores, which improves acne symptoms. Chemical peels not only help prevent and treat acne but also help with removing hyperpigmentation or dark marks left behind by past acne and evening out the skin tone.
- Microdermabrasion – Teens with mild to moderate acne breakouts can benefit from deep exfoliation through microdermabrasion. It involves the use of tiny crystals which act as a buffer for dead skin cells on the face.
- Prescription Medications and Creams – Inflammatory acne is best left treated with medication to ease inflammation and creams such as retinoids, which act to exfoliate and unclog the pores of the skin and prevent cysts and nodules.
- Fraxel Restore– Unfortunately, acne can leave behind indentations or a rough texture. Fraxel reduces the appearance of scars using a non-ablative laser to stimulate collagen production and fill out scars and create smoother skin.
The results of various cosmetic dermatology treatments can restore your teen’s confidence and allow them to focus on other things such as school, friends, and family, which are necessary to have a happy and fulfilling life.
Teen Acne Treatment in Miami, Coral Gables, Doral, Miami Lakes, Miramar, Kendall, and Palm Beach Gardens, FL
If your teen is feeling self-conscious about their acne, trust the expertise of our board-certified dermatologist at Children’s Skin Center, Dr. Ana Duarte with improving your child’s skin. Dr. Duarte creates lasting bonds with our pediatric patients. Our treatments are uniquely designed for each patient, improving the appearance of the skin and setting the person free from anxiety caused by acne.
The Children’s Skin Center is a kid-friendly practice but also treats adults with skin problems. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Duarte, call our clinic today at (305) 669-6555 or use our convenient appointment request form.
