Teenage acne, with its intricate web of causes and effects, holds a mirror to the complex interplay of biology, hormones, and external influences that shape the teenage experience. This common skin condition, while often dismissed as a mere rite of passage, can profoundly impact a teenager’s self-esteem, body image, and overall well-being.

Here we explore 5 top tips to reduce teenage acne –

What types of products are applied to the skin?

Sometimes, when teens get worried about their skin, they start using lots of different products from different brands. But using too many products that do the same thing can actually make your skin worse, causing more breakouts and irritation. It’s a good idea to stick to one brand and not use too many scented products.

It’s important to choose products that are gentle and not too rough on your skin. Also, it’s a good idea to figure out what type of skin you have so you can use products that are right for you. When you start using new products, give them about 6 to 8 weeks to see if they work. Don’t worry if you get more pimples when you start – that doesn’t mean the products aren’t working.

How many times do you clean your pillowcase?

When we sleep, we spend around 7 hours resting our faces on our pillowcases. Throughout the night, dirt and oil from our skin and hair can end up on the pillowcase. The next night, we place our clean faces onto these pillowcases. To help keep your skin in good condition, make sure to wash your pillowcase regularly. This way, you can avoid potentially worsening your skin by sleeping on a dirty surface.

Did you experience trouble with dairy as a baby?
We’ve noticed that if you had issues with dairy when you were younger and outgrew them, your skin might be affected again as your hormones change during your teenage years. Consuming dairy during this time could potentially worsen your skin and lead to additional issues. It could be worth considering avoiding dairy for around 12 weeks to see if there’s any improvement. Remember, what you put into your body can affect what comes out – if your digestive system isn’t functioning properly, it could show up as skin problems.

Hands off, please!

While the temptation to fiddle with your skin might be strong, doing so can result in scarring, infections, and even more breakouts. It’s best to avoid the urge to pick, pop, or squeeze acne spots and allow your skin to heal on its own.

Minimize makeup usage unless essential

While we acknowledge that teenagers might opt for makeup to conceal imperfections, it’s important to note that this can lead to pore congestion and aggravated skin issues. Aim to embrace a makeup-free approach whenever feasible. However, if you find it challenging to go without makeup, consider utilizing oil-free products.

Moisturise

Hydrate your skin with moisturizer, even if it’s oily. Maintaining hydration is essential for balanced skin. Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer for best results.