Almost all teenagers get acne. Acne is caused by overactive oil glands in the skin, and a build-up of oil, dead skin cells and bacteria, which leads to inflammation in your pores. Oil glands become stimulated when hormones become active during puberty. Acne can also be partly genetic, so if other people in your family had or have acne, you may be more likely to develop it too.

When acne does strike, it’s important to learn proper care strategies. Acne is not caused by a dirty face. In fact, washing your face too often can worsen your acne and dry your skin out. Washing your face once in the morning and once in evening with warm water is ideal. However, if you exercise, work around greasy food or oil, or you’ve been sweating from heat, wash your face and other acne-prone areas as soon as possible. Use a mild acne cleanser, and don’t scrub with a washcloth, use your fingertips as they are gentler.

After cleansing, use a mild daily moisturizer or cream to hydrate your skin. Choose a moisturizer that is labeled oil-free or non-comedogenic. It is usually best to apply your moisturizer directly after cleansing when your skin is damp.

Although it may seem impossible, the most important thing to remember is to avoid popping pimples or picking your acne. Popping and picking can lead to scarring, and it also takes longer for them to heal. When you squeeze a pimple, it can actually push infected material and pus deeper into your skin. And that can lead to more swelling and redness, or eventually scarring.

Most preteens and teenagers will get acne at some point. Eating nutritious foods can help keep you healthy, and your skin will benefit from getting enough vitamins and minerals. The bottom line is that breakouts happen, and you shouldn’t let them define you. By adopting good skin care habits, much of the emotional and physical scarring caused by teen acne can be prevented.

If your Greenville Pediatrics pediatrician thinks a referral to a dermatologist is merited after the latest appointment, one will be set-up for your teenager.