Acne and adolescence often seem to go hand in hand. Approximately 17 million people in the United States have some degree of acne, including eight out 10 teenagers, according to Kids Health.org. Hormones likely play a role in the development of acne, making the condition most prevalent during puberty, say the Mayo Clinic. Pimples form when hair follicles under the skin become clogged. While acne is not a serious condition it can leave scars on skin. A number of products and medications are available to tackle teen acne.
Hydroxy Acids
Alpha hydroxy acids including lactic acid, glycolic acid and beta hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid, are contained in some over-the-counter acne creams. These man-made versions of acids derived from fruits help to slough dead skin cells and diminish inflammation, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Since alpha hydroxy acids promote new, smoother skin, they may diminish the appearance of acne scars. Salicylic acid has a drying effect and also prevents clogged pores by slowing the flaking of cells inside the hair follicles, the Mayo Clinic reports.
Benzoyl Peroxide & Suflur
Benzoyl peroxide may be the best acne-fighting ingredient for teen acne, according to the Mayo Clinic. Benzoyl peroxide destroys pimple-causing bacteria, removes excess oil and clears away dead skin cells that can block pores. Benzoyl peroxide is available in various strengths that typically range from 2.5 percent to 10 percent.
Sulfur is sometimes combined with acne products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, according to the Mayo Clinic. Sulfur helps minimize oil and removes pore-clogging dead skin cells.
Azelaic Acid
A prescription-only topical medication that contains azelaic acid, brand named Azelex and Finacea, is used to treat mild to moderate teen acne, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, or AAD. Azelaic acid slows the abnormal shedding of skin cells, helps to keep pores unclogged and reduces inflammation, the Mayo Clinic says.
Retinoids
Topical retinoids are a derivative of vitamin A and can effectively treat mild to severe teen acne, according to the AAD. Tretinoin or Retin-A is the original topical retinoid that slowly but surely unblocks pores and keep them clear.
A synthetic retinoid called adapalene, brand name Differin, unclogs pores and has significant anti-inflammatory abilities.
Oral Medications
Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics such as erythromycin or tetracycline in cases of moderate to severe acne to help decrease bacteria and diminish inflammation, according to the Mayo Clinic. It may take three to four months before you notice an improvement in your acne.
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