What You Can Do

Parents should be aware that acne can be a source of anxiety for their teen's. Many parents might remember their own case of teen acne and how it made them feel shy or self-conscious. It is important to know that acne can impact a teen's self-esteem and self-confidence at a critical point in his or her development.

So what can you do to help your teenager with his or her acne and their overall well being?

Encourage Discussion

The American Counseling Association (ACA) encourages parents to talk openly with their teenagers about all aspects of growing up, particularly issues like acne that can be managed.

Some teens need to talk about how acne makes them feel. Be available for these discussions and reassure your teen that you will help them to find an effective acne treatment.

Facilitate Healthy Nutrition

The skin is often considered a reflection of our inner health. Good overall health requires a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. A variety of fruits and vegetables, limited fat, and 8-10 glasses of water a day are beneficial for everyone.

By the way, science has disproved the myth that chocolate and fried foods cause acne. Nonetheless, a healthy diet is important.

Know your Stuff

Understand the causes of acne and the best skin care techniques. Be knowledgeable about treatment options. Share the information with your teen and help him or her to take control of his/her own acne. For some teens the best approach may be to point them in the direction of a teen or acne website and let them discover what they need to know for him or herself.

Emphasize Good Skin Care

Here are some of the healthy skin care tips that your teen can put into action right away.

• Acne cannot be scrubbed away. In fact, abrasive washing or drying can irritate your teen's skin and worsen the acne. They should gently wash their skin with a mild soap once or twice daily, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
• Astringents are not recommended unless your teen's skin is very oily. If they need to use an astringent, it should only be applied to the oily spots.
• The best cosmetic skin care products and sunscreens to use are labeled oil-free, water-based, noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic. These products will not clog pores. Sunscreen should have a sun protection level of at least 15 SPF.
• Many acne medications may cause sun sensitivity. Your teen should avoid excessive exposure to the sun. Despite a common belief, tanning does not clear up acne. It actually causes the skin to produce more oil. Tanning may also lead to premature aging and skin cancer.
• Your teen should not scratch, pick, squeeze or pop his or her pimples. This may push bacteria from the pimple further into the skin and cause more inflammation and infection.

For more skin care information see Acne Tips or How Should People with Acne Care for Their Skin?

Seek Professional Advice

If over-the-counter products prove to be ineffective or you're concerned that your teen's lesions could cause scarring, consult with a dermatologist. Together, your teen and the dermatologist can find an effective acne treatment.

With the many acne treatments available today, there is truly no need for your teen to suffer the physical, social and emotional distress that acne may cause.

If you would like to locate a dermatologist in your area, use our Dermatologist Finder. We also have a Dermatologist Prep Form that your teen can fill out, print and take with them to his or her appointment.