teenage acne: a rite of passage we can control

Teenage acne: a rite of passage we can easily control

Teens always have the same problem: how to rebel and conform at the same time. They solve this dilemma by defying their parents and copying one another. As parents ourselves, we understand the physical and psychological affects of acne, obesity and stress, particularly at exam time.

The good news is that if we take decisive steps to support and help our children through this painful period of their lives; normality resumes sooner rather than later.

Teenage Acne

What is Acne?

Acne, for those who want the science on these matters, is a disorder of the pilosebaceous unit, which is made up of a hair follicle, sebaceous gland, and a hair. These units are found everywhere on the body except on the palms, soles, top of the feet, and lower lip (which unfortunately means that they are in greatest numbers on the face, upper neck, and chest).

Sebaceous glands produce a substance called sebum, which is responsible for keeping the skin and hair moisturised. As parents, our problem is that during adolescence, sebaceous glands enlarge and produce more sebum under the influence of hormones (also called androgens). And while your teen probably won’t appreciate this fact: at around 20 (years of age), sebum production begins to decrease.

Meanwhile; we have a bacterium called Propionibacterium Acnes which is a normal inhabitant of the skin. It uses sebum as a nutrient for growth and increases in follicles during puberty. If your children have acne, they have more of this impossible sounding name in their follicles – so it is important to avoid the spread of bacterial infection and the long-term scarring that disfigures them.

We’re talking self-esteem and/or confidence – of which the more severe cases lead to the (largely hidden) spectre of depression.

What can you do?

The good news is that once we follow basic hygiene rules and familiarise ourselves with the use and efficacy (or otherwise) of over-the-counter skincare and medication products; for the vast majority of teenagers, acne is easily controlled.

Want more? Teen Corrective Facials

An idea born in love, this treatment treats excess oil, dead skin cells, acne, bacteria and inflammation. Naturally, we will recommend a home-care regimen for you, to help keep recurring acne under control.

60 minutes $125

Author: Saroj Velho

  • BA (Hons.) Psychology: University of Delhi
  • Dip. Beauty Therapy: Australasian Academy of Wellness Therapies
  • Full Professional Member: Assoc. Professional Aestheticians Australia

Read more about Saroj

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