The population most affected by acne is teenagers. Almost every teen in the world will experience at least one breakout of acne during their adolescence. The condition of acne depends on the individual and can range from mild to severe acne in which teens experience blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes cystic acne. Also common among teens is body or back acne that can affect the back, chest, and shoulders. Fortunately there are a wide range of teenage acne treatments available that target teen acne and its relationship to hormonal changes.

Causes of Teenage Acne

During puberty, teenagers experience changes in their bodies as well as changes in hormone levels. These hormones can cause a myriad of effects, such as growth spurts, moodiness, body hair, as well as the heightened activity of various body glands. The sebaceous glands are one of these active glands and are responsible for producing sebum, an oily secretion that moisturizes skin and hair. During adolescence these glands enlarge and produce more sebum under the influence of hormones. Overactive glands and too much sebum are factors that pose risk in the development of acne.

Acne is due to injury to healthy cells within these sebum glands. Cells within the glands can be injured by the force of sebum output which is common considering the heightened gland activity during adolescence. Hardened sebum as well as oil and dead skin cells within the follicle can also damage living cells. The damage triggers an inflammatory immune response that irritates and reddens the skin and can cause what we know as a pimple. Acne may also have hereditary factors meaning that if your parent had teen acne or still suffers from adult acne, you will be at higher risk for acne during your teen years.

Teenage Acne Treatment

There are numerous teenage acne treatments that include over-the-counter topical acne creams, medical prescriptions, daily cleansers and toners, as well as a variety of natural skin care options. Unfortunately there is no cure for acne and the success of skin care products really depends on each individual. However, the most important thing is to be knowledgeable about the process of acne and how to choose a product that will successfully treat its root causes, not just its symptoms. Severe medications are not necessary in treating teenage acne. In many cases, acne will improve naturally with the passing of puberty and balancing of hormone levels. You should avoid harsh treatments that might damage skin cells long after the recovery of teenage acne. Stick with more organic types of acne treatment cream that can address biological causes of acne and treat them naturally.

Skin Friendly Diet

Diet may also play a role in acne recovery. However, chocolate and oily foods do not cause acne as some might believe. Heightened sebum secretion due to hormones is not related to what kinds of food you eat. Nevertheless, healthy skin needs a healthy diet that includes the right vitamins and nutrients. During adolescence, especially, diet is vital as the body needs to be strong enough to grow as well as maintain a strong immune system. Additionally, healthy, well balanced diets tend to lower stress and consequently lessen gland activity and the risk of acne.