Teens and Acne

It has been a common misconception for quite some time that teenagers were the ones primarily affected by acne. The truth is that acne affects many people regardless of age. It is quite possible to develop acne for the very first time as an adult. Other common misconceptions about acne include the myth that eating chocolate will cause an outbreak. Studies have indicated that the only ingredient that worsens acne outbreaks is iodine.

Acne is thought to be a hereditary condition though it is difficult to prove or disprove with such a large segment of the population being affected by this particular skin disorder and there is no definitive one size fits all cure for acne. Despite the lack of a cure, there are many effective treatments and teenagers, desperate to fit in, will seek out the perfect cure for their slight imperfections.

Teenage girls have it a little easier than teenaged boys as they can use a little creative makeup magic in order to cover their blemishes. Boys on the other hand are not quite so lucky. There are however, a few masking creams on the market that help hide the blemishes without looking too much like cosmetics. These are often a good place to start for those teenaged boys going through this experience. Image is an important commodity in today's teens and teens that have more severe forms of acne are more likely to suffer from depression, mood swings, and eating disorders (to compensate for the acne).

Many teens are told to avoid eating fried foods, chocolate, and any number of other teen friendly foods in order to avoid outbreaks. There is no evidence that this advice is at all sage advice, while it is always good to have well balanced eating habits, it is not necessary to give up on all the fun teen foods in order to have enjoy clear skin. In fact, this advice will likely result in frustration once you've abstained with no results, it is however advised by dermatologists that teens refrain from nuts, alcohol, and caffeine because they stimulate oil glands in the skin.

Parents need to be especially aware of the problems some teens may have coping with their acne and work hard to boost their self-esteem. If acne is becoming an issue for your teen take him or her to a dermatologist and work on the problem right away. Don't let a small problem of lack of confidence become the huge problem of no self esteem. When talking to your doctor learn the facts about acne and share them with your teen. Do not let your teen live in fear of what can be because of what someone tells him or her, rather let them bask in knowledge over ignorance. That in and of itself should help them regain some of their damaged self worth. Remind them that there is nothing about having acne that is their fault and that you think they are beautiful people.

Though acne cannot be completely eliminated, you do not have to let it rule your life. There are effective acne treatments available you just have to work to find the one that is best for you.