Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting around 50 million Americans every year, according to data from the American Academy of Dermatology. Yet, when your teen is dealing with a breakout, they can feel like they’re all alone in their struggles.
At Luminary Dermatology, our team is highly skilled in managing dermatology medically, but we also recognize the critical role parents play in helping their child manage both the physical and psychological effects of acne. In this post, learn some simple steps you can take to make sure your teen who’s struggling with acne gets the support and treatment they need.
Acne doesn’t only cause physical symptoms — it takes a huge emotional toll, too. Acne has a direct bearing on your appearance; in turn, that affects the way you feel about yourself and the world around you. That effect is even more dramatic in today’s social media-driven society.
If your teen is struggling with acne, don’t minimize their concerts and anxieties, even if you think their breakouts are relatively minor. The effects of acne are very real to them, and diminishing their feelings can make them feel worse.
Instead, let your teen know you understand their struggle and validate their feelings — and explain that you’re available to work with them to find a solution that can help.
Dermatology has come a long way since you were a teen. Today’s acne treatments are more targeted and more effective than ever.
As with any chronic health condition, the earlier your teen starts treatment, the faster they’ll see positive results. Early treatment minimizes both the physical and emotional impacts of acne, and it helps decrease the risk of scarring.
Acne can be stubborn, and most people need to try a few treatments before they find the combination that works for their skin’s needs. Ideally, bring your teen in at the first sign of acne so we can develop a strategy that works for them.
Most teens spend a lot of time on social media, and that means they’re exposed to products being touted by so-called influencers. While your teen might be tempted to believe what they see and hear on social media, remember that most influencers are paid to promote products, regardless of whether the products work. Some products could make your teen’s acne symptoms much worse.
Help your child do their own research, and encourage them to discuss products with our team at their next appointment rather than buying products blindly.
Many teens — and adults, too — mistakenly believe plenty of sun exposure helps acne by drying out excess oils, but that’s not the case. In fact, excess sun exposure can irritate your teen’s skin, triggering oil production and increasing inflammation and breakouts. Some acne medications increase sun sensitivity, too.
Make sure your teen understands the benefits of sun protection, and encourage them to wear it every day — even when it’s cold or cloudy.
As noted, acne has a major emotional impact, especially on teens whose self-esteem is still developing. Research shows that teens with acne are more likely to experience low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, and bullying can become a real threat, too.
If your teen exhibits signs of anxiety or depression, like social isolation or mood changes, take those symptoms seriously and seek help for them right away. When it comes to teen acne, emotional support is just as important as physical treatment.
Don’t let your teen struggle with acne alone. As a parent, you can help them get the treatment they need to enjoy smoother skin, greater confidence, and better peace of mind — now and in the future.
To learn how we can help, book an appointment online or over the phone today with the team at Luminary Dermatology. You and your teen can see us in Miami, Homestead, Sarasota, Venice, Longboat Key, Bradenton, and North Port, Florida.