(Disclaimer: None of the topics discussed in this article should be construed as medical advice. We do not claim that any of the information presented here to be 100% accurate and you should seek advice from a medical professional and/or dermatologist in regards to any skin and/or health issues.)
Teenage skin is known to breakout.
In fact, 85% of young people experience acne. But aside from disrupting complexions, acne is also linked to low self-esteem, mood disorders and poor school attendance.
That’s why taking back control of acne-prone complexions is often about more than achieving clear skin.
What Causes Teenage Acne?
When dead skin cells block pores, sebum builds. It’s these blockages that are the cause of breakouts.
It turns out that acne-prone skin produces more sebum than drier complexions, but why this happens is not well understood.
However, there are some factors which have been linked to the cause of teenage acne, including:
● Diet
It turns out that diet could impact teenage complexions.
Several studies have found a link between acne and the consumption of dairy. However, it could be that only certain types of dairy products influence this skin condition.
Furthermore, it could be that a diet high in blood-sugar spiking carbs influences acne and according to some research, consuming low-GI foods may reduce the severity of breakouts.
● Hormones
Puberty brings about many changes, including an increase in hormones.
One of these hormones is testosterone which is believed to increase oil production. Teenage girls may also find that monthly hormonal fluctuations contribute to acne. Although the reasons why are not well understood, many females notice flares-up right before their period.
● Genetics
Some studies suggest that acne could potentially run in the family.
Links have been found between genetics and teenage acne, however, scientists are still unclear on the genes that are involved. Although, some research shows that environmental factors may have more of an influence than genes.
How to Prevent & Manage Teenage Acne
Aside from diet, hormones and genetics, other factors could impact the severity of acne, including:
● Stress
Stress can potentially increase the severity of teenage acne and there may even be a link between acne and exam stress!
The reasons why are unknown, but regardless, addressing stress is an important part of improving teenage mental health.
● Cosmetics
Although it can be tempting to cover up acne with heavy make-up products, these could be doing more harm than good.
The AAD recommends using non-comedogenic, oil-free products and making sure any makeup is removed before bed.
We recommend: Ultraceuticals’ Ultra B² Micellar Solution is an easy to use make-up remover which is formulated with gentle, hydrating ingredients alongside niacinamide, which can help to regulate sebum production.
● Sun exposure
The ageing effects of sun exposure are also well known, but UV-rays can also worsen acne by increasing inflammation.
To avoid sun-induced damage, teens should stay out of direct sunlight and wear SPF daily.
We recommend: Wear an SPF like Ultraceuticals’ Ultra UV PDM SPF30 Mattifying, which is suitable for oily complexions and leaves a matte finish on the skin.
Additionally, teens must avoid picking spots and touching their face regularly as this can transfer bacteria onto the skin and cause more inflammation and redness. Smoking is also likely best avoided because aside from this habit’s negative health effects, some studies have suggested a link between smoking and acne severity.
A Skincare Routine For Teenage Acne
Even though consistency is essential, teens can often struggle to stick to a daily skincare routine. That’s why regimens should be quick, easy and uncomplicated.
Here are some simple rules to follow:
● Cleanse skin in the AM and the PM to remove dirt, bacteria and sweat.
● Avoid products that contain alcohol.
● Treat skin with care and avoid harsh scrubs.
Complex regimes aren’t necessarily better. By choosing high-quality products packed with beneficial acne-busting ingredients, a quick routine is more than enough to target blemish-prone skin.
Follow our daily skincare regimen targeted towards acne-prone teenage skin:
1. Cleanse
Cleansing is an essential first step in any skincare routine. However, how we cleanse is just as important as the face wash we use.
Overly scrubbing the skin will only make acne worse, but it can be hard to regulate our own face washing technique. That’s where cleansing tools can help.
A sonic cleansing brush, like SoMeCare[1] , uses a consistent cleansing action[2] that is gentle, yet effective. Its vibrations help to dislodge dirt and oil which block pores, as well as allowing for better product absorption.
Use SoMeCare with Ultraceuticals’ Ultra Balancing Gel Cleanser, which contains pore-exfoliating salicylic acid alongside a whole host of nourishing and soothing ingredients.
2. Exfoliate
Swap harsh physical exfoliants for the chemical kind.
AHAs and BHAs both help to exfoliate away dead skin and blockages, making them ideal ingredients for acne-prone skin.
After cleansing, apply asap’s Clear Complexion Gel. This gel formulation features a blend of AHAs, BHAs and anti-inflammatory tea tree oil. Complete this step just 2-3 times a week to avoid over-exfoliating.
3. Moisturise
It’s important to moisturise acne-prone skin to maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Whilst salicylic acid is a great ingredient to decongest pores, it can dry the skin. When skin is dry it can become inflamed and this can potentially exacerbate acne.
As we touched upon previously, sun protection is essential in order to avoid damage and inflammation. In the AM use an SPF, like Ultraceuticals’ Ultra UV PDM SPF30 Mattifying.
In the evening, choose a water-based moisturiser like asap’s Soothing Gel which is formulated without oils to avoid clogging pores.
Note: If skin shows no improvement, or breakouts are severe, consult a GP or dermatologist who can recommend more targeted treatments.
Best Products For Teenage Acne
Skincare for acne-prone teenage skin doesn’t have to be any more complicated than a 3-step routine.
After all, simplicity is the key to adherence.
However, teens may consider adding further beneficial products into their regime to support their skincare efforts.
We recommend:
● Yonka’s The Anti Blemish Routine[1] which contains 3 simple products formulated with breakout-prone skin in mind. The kit contains a 2-in-1 gentle gel makeup remover/cleanser alongside a once daily treatment that targets blemishes without irritating the skin. Finally, a night cream helps to maintain moisture within the skin whilst addressing texture and excess oils.
● Ultraceuticals’ Ultra Clear Purifying Mask which contains AHAs and BHAs alongside clay, which could help to pull toxins out of the skin.
● Ultraceuticals’ Ultra Clear Spot Treatment could replace pimple-popping habits. Simply apply this onto fresh spots.
● asap’s Super B Complex is a serum which contains a high amount of niacinamide which could help to fade redness and marks left by acne.
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Teenage acne may feel like a struggle, but there are ways to support breakout-prone complexions from home.
A solid cleansing technique coupled with a few well-selected products form the foundation for a skincare regimen that will help to nourish acne-prone skin, whilst targeting excess oils, congestion and blemishes.