Acne is probably one of the biggest skin concerns of teenagers. According to the CDC, 80% of preteens and teens will experience mild to severe acne breakouts.

You’ve probably had acne yourself, so you know how much it can affect a teenager’s self-esteem. Let’s take a deeper dive into acne and the reasons why your teenager needs your help to search for a dermatologist.

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin problem that happens when your pores become clogged with dirt, oil, and other debris. It’s easy for bacteria to grow and cause inflammation in clogged pores. Acne may go away on its own but can become severe in some cases if left untreated.

Acne most commonly forms in the face. However, other places in your body with a high concentration of sebaceous glands are also at risk of developing acne, like your shoulders, back, neck, and chest.

What Are the Common Types of Acne?

There are two primary classifications of acne: non-inflammatory and inflammatory. The former is usually easier to treat, while the latter may need medical attention. Some cases of acne have a combination of both types.

Non-inflammatory acne is the type that doesn’t cause swelling. These can either be blackheads or whiteheads.

Non-inflammatory acne can easily be treated by over-the-counter (OTC) treatments. Products that have salicylic acid are particularly effective in dealing with this type of acne. This ingredient exfoliates the skin, unclogging the pores in the process.

Meanwhile, inflammatory acne appears to be reddish and swollen. This type of acne is worsened by the presence of bacteria in the clogged pores. It is painful to touch and may be difficult to remove.

Various inflammatory subtypes of acne include:

Papules
Pustules
Nodules
Cysts

Treatment for this kind of acne must neutralize the presence of bacteria in your pores, so the swelling can decrease. A pediatric dermatologist will determine an acne treatment plan according to the severity of your teenager’s case.

When Should You Consider Going to a Dermatologist?

If OTC treatments and home remedies for acne turn out to be ineffective for your teenage, it may be time to visit a dermatologist. Their expert care will help your teenager with their breakouts.

Search for a “dermatologist near me” online if you observe these signs in your teenager:

Over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatment products are ineffective

Various OTC products promise to lessen your acne. These come in the form of creams, gels, and cleansers. They incorporate substances like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide that exfoliate and unclog the pores. Mild to moderate forms of acne will usually subside in four to six weeks with the use of OTC treatments.

However, if you’ve noticed that such products do not help solve your teenager’s acne, it’s time to get advice from your dermatologist. Dermatologists can prescribe topical retinoids and other forms of treatment that can unclog pores, especially for teenagers with oily skin.

Your teenager’s acne is affecting their self-esteem or social life

Acne not only affects your teenager’s physical appearance, but it also takes a toll on their self-esteem. Since acne can be a reoccurring skin disorder, many people who experience acne can also develop social disorders, anxiety, and depression.

If you notice your teenager constantly avoiding social events or acting self-conscious, get their acne treated by a professional.

Other signs that you must be wary of include:

Breakouts that are painful and uncomfortable
Acne that leads to scarring
Breakouts that are associated with medication or change in lifestyle

Dermatologist in Miami, Florida

Luckily, acne is always treatable. No matter how severe your teenager’s condition is, there’s always a dermatologist that’s able to help.

At Children’s Skin Center, we can give your teen the solutions to control their acne. Spearheaded by Dr. Ana M. Duarte, we have helped over 200,000 patients of all ages with their skin problems.

You can reach us at (305)-669-6555 to schedule your appointment today. We are looking forward to treating your teenager’s acne, so they can enjoy their teen years to the fullest.