Acne and your teenager

what can you do to help prevent acne from being an everyday issue?

Acne is one of the most common reasons people visit a dermatologist.

Courtesy of the Greater Miami Skin & Laser Center, and Dr. Marty Zaiac.

Acne in Teens & Babies

As most of us will get acne at some point in our lives. “Baby Acne” (0-6 months) and “infantile acne” (6 months and over) are actually quite common, especially among baby boys, and can even look like acne vulgaris, or “teenage acne.” Neonatal acne usually goes away without treatment in one or two months. Infantile acne can be more severe, persistent, and sometimes may require treatment.

Teenage acne, which afflicts about 90% of teens, can be mild to severe. Despite popular belief, candy and greasy foods do not cause or worsen it. In addition to the face, acne can occur on the back, chest, and scalp, and can be a mix of blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed pink or pus bumps and deep painful cysts. Sometimes, breakouts can leave red, dark marks or even little divots or scars on the skin after they have gone away. Most of these marks will fade with time. Teenage acne usually improves in the early 20s, but can persist and last into adulthood.

Treatment Options for Acne

If acne is mild, topical treatments, like topical antibiotics and topical retinoids, are usually effective. If acne is more severe, with inflamed bumps and/or cysts, an oral medication (such as an antibiotic) may be necessary.

Thankfully, there are many treatment options for different varieties of acne and skin types. If you are in Miami a great place to go to is the Greater Miami Skin & Laser Center, where Dr. Marty Zaiac can examine and recommend a treatment, or combination of treatments, for your child’s unique needs.

Note: Pediatrician Tips is strictly a news and information website about pediatrics. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your pediatrician, physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition for any person. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not always those of Pediatrician Tips and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to pediatrics and pediatricians.