The term "adolescent skin problem" usually brings acne to mind, as most teenagers experience at least mild acne during their middle and high school years. Although acne is one skin problem that afflicts adolescents, there are other conditions that are common to teens as well. The cause of many teen skin problems is infection; treatments vary according to the particular ailment, but generally include topical medications.
Acne
Acne is perhaps the most common skin problem among adolescents, according to a 1986 issue of "Canadian Family Physician." During the teen years, the normal fluctuation of hormonal levels and the increase of oil production in the sebaceous glands can cause hair follicles to clog. Pimples, or acne vulgaris, is the result. The severity of acne in adolescence varies from person to person. Topical medications containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can be used to help control acne, according to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Systemic medications, including isotretinoin and tectracycline, may be prescribed to treat severe acne.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a generic term for skin irritation, and can become a problem upon entering adolescence. One form of dermatitis is eczema, which is more common in smaller children, but can also develop at around age 12, according to health information resource KeepKidsHealthy.com. Contact dermatitis, or a skin irritation that occurs when coming in contact with substances that provoke an allergic reaction, can also be a problem during this time in a young person's life. Makeup, jewelry, body sprays and other cosmetics can all cause a red, itchy contact dermatitis rash in some young adults. Treatment for dermatitis varies according to the cause, but may include the use of a hydrocortisone cream.
Warts
Warts are small, noncancerous growths that appear on the skin, usually due to a viral infection and are common adolescent skin problems, according to the Canadian Family Physician and KeepKidsHealthy.com. Warts in young people may be caused by the HPV virus, the same virus that causes some forms of cervical cancer. Another type of viral infection called molluscum contagiosum can also produce warts during the teenage years and is thought to be spread through sexual contact due to the location of the growths. Molluscum contagiosum generally appears on the inner thighs and genital regions of teens and young adults. Depending on the seriousness of the condition, warts may be treated with home remedies such as duct tape, anti-viral creams or cryosurgery.
Infections
Adolescents can be the victims of fungal and parasitic skin infections, including ringworm, athlete's foot and scabies. Athlete's foot develops in damp conditions and may be more likely in those who play sports, but the fungal infection can strike anyone, regardless or age or hobbies. Scabies and ringworm are also highly infectious skin problems; according to the Canadian Family Physician, scabies mites are common in teens. Treatment for these skin problems include anti-fungal medications.
Pityriasis Rosea
A raised, scaly discoloration of the skin, usually on the chest or back is called pityriasis rosea and is common to both children and teens, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some people who have a pityriasis rosea rash also develop cold or flu-like symptoms including a stuffy nose. This particular type of skin problem can last for a couple of months before it clears, though anti-viral drugs may shorten its course. Topical medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and treat discomfort.
