Hormonal surges that commonly take place during puberty can cause teenagers to produce an overabundance of an oil in the skin called sebum, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Sebum, along with dead skin cells, can clog pores. This often results in pimples, blackheads and whiteheads. Upwards of 90 percent of teenagers experience at least mild acne breakouts at time. Certain skincare products are designed specifically for adolescent acne-prone skin.
Antibacterial Soap
Using a mild antibacterial soap twice a day may help teens with oily skin prevent acne breakouts, notes the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. While very oily skin may need to be cleansed more frequently, overwashing and vigorous rubbing can actually worsen acne. Talk to your dermatologist about the best cleansing routine for your skin type and condition.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide may be the most effective ingredient in skincare products for acne, reports the Mayo Clinic. It helps remove excess oils and dead skin cells that work together to block pores. Less is more when it comes to applying benzoyl peroxide to the skin. Rubbing a dab the size of a pencil eraser to dry skin two or three times per week will usually suffice. Benzoyl peroxide can cause burning, redness and stinging.
Salicylic Acid
Skin lotions, gels, pads or soaps that contain salicylic acid may benefit teens because they destroy bacteria and dry up oil, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Salicylic acid can prevent pores from becoming blocked by slowing the flaking of cells inside the hair follicle. It may also stop blackheads and whiteheads from forming. Salicylic acid can cause a mild stinging sensation.
Sunscreen
The importance of using sunscreen during adolescence is often overlooked. Sunscreen can help guard against premature aging and more serious conditions like skin cancer that can occur down the road due to long-term, unprotected sun exposure. Teens should wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of 15 or higher, even on cloudy days. Choose a sunscreen that's labeled "nonacnegenic" or "noncomedogenic" to help keep pores from becoming blocked. Talk to your doctor if you are taking prescription acne medications or oral contraceptives because they may increase skin sensitivity to the sun.
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