Good advice, easy-to-use products, and a little time during the day are all it takes to improve acne concerns. Easier said than done, when it comes to teenagers. “The Teenage Brain Explained” is a comic video from Sci Show that summarizes adolescence. One of the most important topics in the video – developing useful skills for adulthood – is a great time to educate teenagers on the best skin care practices.
Acne can have immediate, long-term, and psychological impact on a teen. They may not always be receptive to practicing good skin care habits, but once they do, the results have long-term impacts on social development and healthy, clear skin as adults.
Keep Sports Gear Clean
Helmets, chin straps, neck rolls, and shoulder/pads are notorious acne aggravators. The combination of friction, heat, and pressure encourage acne formation where the pads rub the skin.
Clean equipment daily using a mild soap (Dawn®), warm water, and a soft cloth. Be sure to use a clean damp cloth to remove the soap. Follow with a light application of disinfecting spray (Lysol®). Household cleaners can contain abrasive ingredients that may irritate skin and damage equipment – avoid using them to clean sports gear.
Wash Daily
Teen skin is experiencing a combination of excess oil and bacteria. Avid athletes also have sweat to contend with. It does not cause acne, but it can influence acne formation, inflammation, and acne-like bumps and redness (folliculitis).
Salicylic cleansers are important because they help reduce oil, un-clog pores, and reduce bacteria that result in whiteheads, blackheads, and cysts. Cleansing the skin morning and night is vital for acne that develops on the face and body.
Like some adults, teenagers may not always be willing to wash their face twice a day. Which is why Advanced Rejuvenating Concepts introduced the Resurfacing Peel treatment pads for nighttime use. Glycolic and salicylic acid are paired together in a self-neutralizing formula to effectively wipe away dirt and oil, and exfoliate the skin.
Mind the Body
Body acne is common among men, women, and teens experiencing cystic acne breakouts. Cysts commonly lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark brown or red spots) and acne scars/pits in the skin. Treat body acne the same as facial acne: cleanse daily and spot treat with Blemish Control.
Exfoliate
Do not scrub. Use a serum with hydroxy acids and/or enzymes. These ingredients offer antimicrobial support for the skin, loosen compacted dirt and oil, and dissolve dead skin cells. Physical irritation from a scrub can worsen breakouts.
Daily cleansing and exfoliation with salicylic and/or benzoyl peroxide are the easiest ways to reduce acne. However, a beneficial acne regimen does not end here. In fall and winter months, keep the skin hydrated and supple to prevent breakouts. And always wear sunscreen to protect skin from premature aging and skin cancer formation. If a teen is suffering from severe, inflammatory cystic acne, advice them to see a dermatologist.