In love for the first time, finally allowed to go to the movies in the evening, soon maybe even your own car – growing up is great. Less “cool”, however, are the pimples and pustules that plague almost every teenager. So that acne doesn’t spoil all the fun, the right care and treatment is called for.
Hormonal change provides for pimples
“Many teenagers are very bothered by the greasy sheen of their skin,” reports Professor Dr. Christiane Bayerl, Wiesbaden. This seborrhea is typical when hormonal changes during puberty activate the skin‘s sebum production, among many other changes. Hyperkeratosis, i.e. excessive keratinization of the sebaceous glands, also occurs. The pores of the skin become clogged, blackheads – open, black or closed, white comedones – develop. Pimples, inflammatory papules or purulent pustules may develop.
Cleansing the skin in acne
“A common mistake, however, is aggressive cleansing with too much soap or even facial toner containing alcohol,” warns Bayerl. This unnecessarily strains the skin and damages the acid mantle, making the skin more susceptible to irritation and germs. Mild syndets should be preferred.
The dermatologist recommends products specifically designed for young, blemished skin. “Very helpful are gentle rubbing scrubs that thoroughly remove not only dirt but also excess lipids, dead skin cells and sweat,” explains Bayerl. “Dermocosmetic active ingredients such as salicylic acid or fruit acids dissolve horny plugs and prevent the formation of comedones. Products that can be used as a peeling as well as a mask are very practical.” Do not use a rub-on peel on fresh pustules.
Care of the skin and treatment of acne
Care should be taken daily with moisturizing oil-in-water emulsions, such as a hydrogel. A mattifying day cream takes the unsightly skin shine. Highly fatty creams, for example with lanolin, are unfavorable. Young people should look out for skin care products that are labeled “non-comedogenic”. Ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile or witch hazel not only care for the skin, but also soothe it and relieve inflammation.
By the way, you should not “push around” blackheads and pimples yourself – this only worsens the skin condition and can even lead to scarring. “A regular manual cleansing by a trained beautician is better,” advises Bayerl.
See a dermatologist early for treatment
Anyone suffering from acne should seek advice from a dermatologist early on. “It is important to have an individualized care and treatment plan that is tailored to the skin condition and needs of the young patient,” Bayerl emphasizes. The dermatologist will prescribe a cream or gel with a suitable medical active ingredient or, in the case of a severe course, a drug to be taken. “Tailored skin care can then support the dermatological therapy,” adds the expert.
Dermatologist tips on the subject of acne
- “Thorough washing prevents acne” What is important is not a lot, but regular proper care! Aggressive detergents can actually harm the skin, too much soap can aggravate acne. Special acne products prefer.
- “Sweet and sour is forbidden” An acne is not affected by any diet. However, a balanced, healthy diet provides beautiful skin “from the inside”.
- “Sun helps against pimples” No, too much UV light actually worsens the cornification. Therefore, pay attention to sufficient sun protection, preferably use non-comedogenic preparations such as hydrogels. Caution: some acne medications make the skin additionally sensitive to light.
- “With pimples is cuddling taboo” Not at all, because acne is not contagious to others.
