Acne is a common skin problem that causes pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes painful lumps on the kin. It mostly shows up on the face, but can also affect the back, chest, or shoulders.
Acne is very common in teenagers. Almost all teens get it, but it can still make them feel embarrassed or upset. As a parent or guardian, it's important to take their feelings seriously. Acne can hurt a teen’s confidence and make them feel stressed. Helping your teen deal with acne can make things easier and also help prevent lasting skin problems.
Hormones: During puberty, your body makes more male hormones (even in girls), especially something called androgens. These hormones cause the skin’s oil glands to:
Make more oil (sebum)
Mix with dead skin cells
Clog pores — and that’s how acne forms!
Bacteria: A type of bacteria called P. acnes (now known as Cutibacterium acnes) lives on your skin. It feeds on the oil and can cause redness and swelling.
Family history: If your parents had acne, you’re more likely to have it too.
Nope. Acne is not caused by dirt or poor hygiene. Washing your face too much or scrubbing too hard can actually make acne worse.
Blackheads and Whiteheads: These are the first signs of acne.
Blackheads are open pores with a dark top.
Whiteheads are closed bumps under the skin.
Red Pimples:
As acne worsens, you might see red, swollen bumps called papules or pustules (pimples with pus).
Bigger Lumps:
More serious acne can cause nodules and cysts, which are large, painful lumps deep in the skin.
Scars:
After acne heals, it can leave behind scars—these might look like dents (from tissue loss) or raised marks (from extra tissue).
For most teens, yes — acne improves after puberty, but it can take a few years. In the meantime, it can be managed with the right skincare and treatment.
Mild acne:
Gentle face wash as prescribed by your dermatologist.
Over-the-counter creams with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
Topical retinoids (like adapalene): help unclog pores and reduce new breakouts.
Moderate to severe acne:
May need prescription creams or pills
Dermatologists might suggest:
Topical retinoids (e.g., tretinoin)
Oral antibiotics
Hormone treatments (like OCPs or spironolactone)
Isotretinoin for resistant or nodulocystic acne (under strict medical supervision)
Not directly. But for some people, dairy or sugary/high-carb foods (like sweets, white bread, sugary drinks) may make acne worse.
It’s different for everyone — keeping track of your diet can help spot triggers.
Yes, it can. Stress doesn't cause acne, but it can make existing acne worse by affecting hormones and how the skin reacts.
No! Please don’t do it. Popping pimples can:
Push bacteria deeper into the skin
Cause scarring or dark spots
Make inflammation worse
Myth: Washing your face a lot will cure acne.
Fact: Washing too often or scrubbing hard can irritate your skin and make acne worse. Twice a day with a gentle cleanser is enough.
Myth : Only teens get acne.
Fact: While it’s most common in teenagers, adults can get acne too — especially women due to hormonal changes.
Myth : Makeup causes acne.
Fact: Using non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) makeup and removing it properly is usually safe. Sleeping in makeup, though, is a no-no.
Myth : Acne will go away in a few days.
Fact: Acne often takes weeks or months to clear, even with good treatment. Be patient and consistent.
Myth: Natural or herbal products are always safe for acne.
Fact: Just because it’s “natural” doesn’t mean it’s safe or effective. Ingredients like lemon juice or toothpaste can irritate the skin and worsen acne or cause pigmentation.
Myth : Scrubs and exfoliators remove acne.
Fact: Physical scrubs can damage the skin barrier, spread bacteria, and worsen active pimples.
Myth : Nothing works for acne.
Fact: There are lots of treatments that help. What works for one person may not work for another — that’s why seeing a dermatologist can really help.
If
Acne is very painful, deep, or spreading
It’s affecting confidence or mental health
Over-the-counter stuff and home remedies isn’t helping after a few weeks
Then it's time to see a dermatologist. They can offer personalized treatment.
Here are 14 simple, effective tips for managing teen acne — easy to understand, easy to follow:
Wash your face twice a day
Use a gentle cleanser — not something harsh or scrubby. Morning and evening is enough.
Don’t over-wash or scrub
Scrubbing your skin too hard can irritate it and make acne worse.
Hands off your face!
Touching your face or picking at pimples spreads bacteria and can cause scarring.
Don’t pop pimples
Popping leads to inflammation, infection, or dark marks that last longer than the pimple itself.
Shampoo regularly if you have oily hair
Oily hair can rub oil onto your forehead, leading to breakouts — especially around the hairline.
Wipe down your phone screen
Your phone collects dirt and oil that can irritate your skin — especially on your cheeks.
Change pillowcases and towels often
Oil and bacteria build up on fabrics. Try to change them every few days.
Stick to your skincare routine
Give products time to work — at least 6–8 weeks. Don’t switch too often or expect instant results.
Be gentle with acne treatments
Follow the instructions given by your Dermatologist carefully. Using too much of acne cream or gel won’t speed things up — it can dry or burn your skin.
Home remedies like applying toothpaste or lemon can irritate skin and worsen acne — please avoid.
Watch what touches your face
Helmets, headbands, or tight clothing can cause friction and trigger acne (especially on the forehead or back).
Eat a balanced diet
No magic food “cures” acne but cutting back on sugar and dairy might help some individuals. Drink plenty of water too!
See a dermatologist if it’s not getting better
If acne is painful, deep, or affecting your confidence, a doctor can help with stronger treatments that actually work.
Final Thoughts:
Acne is super common in teens, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.
With the right skincare and help from a doctor if needed, it can be managed — and it doesn’t last forever.
Disclaimer: This article is only for general patient information and is not intended for self medication. There is no legal liability of IADVL arising out of any adverse consequence to the patient. Subsequent to its use for self treatment of the disease images adjust for the depiction of the condition and is not to be used for any other purpose.
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