Acne is a common skin condition. Most people will have to deal with a pimple or two at some point in their lives. Even so, teenagers are much more prone to these skin flare-ups. Hormones, which cause an increase in oil production, are primarily to blame. But just because acne is common, doesn't mean you have to accept it. There are several strategies for treating teenage acne and maintaining blemish-free skin, all the way into adulthood.
Step 1
Buy over-the-counter acne medications and apply them each morning and evening. After cleansing your skin, apply a cream containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to each of your blemishes (or all over if your acne is widespread), being careful to avoid the lips and eyes. Some skin dryness may result, but generally, these treatments soak up excess oil and banish your pimples.
Step 2
Apply a topical retinoid to your teenage acne. Popular brand names include Differin and Retin-A. These drugs are derived from vitamin A and work to slough off dead skin, which normally clogs pores. Over time, this will prevent new blemishes from forming, though some skin irritation is to be expected.
Step 3
Take an oral antibiotic to combat stubborn cases of teenage acne. Antibiotics kill the bacteria that causes your breakouts and reduces the chances of your breakouts returning. Extended use of antibiotics can cause the drugs to become ineffective, so a gradual decrease in dosing over time is recommended to reduce this possibility.
Step 4
Take birth control pills if you are a female teen. Oral contraceptives that contain low levels of estrogen can be helpful in reducing hormone-related acne breakouts. There is a risk of side effects, however, so discuss with your doctor if this is the right acne treatment option for you.
Step 5
Consider taking isotretinoin to treat your teenage acne. This drug is more commonly known by its brand name, Accutane, and works by making oil glands on the hair follicles smaller. This prevents excess oil production and limits your breakouts. For many, it stops their acne altogether. Be warned, however, that isotretinoin can cause severe side effects, such as birth defects, so it is usually only used as a last resort for acne treatment.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter acne cream
- Topical retinoid
- Oral antibiotics
- Oral contraceptives
- Isotretinoin
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