1. Take Hormonal Acne Seriously

A survey revealed that 7 out of 10 parents do not take teenage acne seriously, which can frustrate teens even more. Dismissing it with phrases like “It’s just hormonal” or “It’ll go away with time” doesn’t help. Take your teen’s acne seriously. For mild acne, consider over-the-counter treatments with ingredients like salicylic acid. If the acne worsens, consult a dermatologist for professional advice and treatment options.

2. Focus on Diet & Exercise

A healthy diet and regular exercise can greatly boost your teen’s confidence. When they feel good physically, it can positively impact their mental outlook. Encourage them to maintain a balanced lifestyle alongside their acne treatment. In addition, ensure your teen isn’t struggling with other body image concerns. Take them for a run, promote healthy habits, and help instill body positivity.

3. Remind, Don’t Nag

Teens often forget or avoid using their acne medications. Be persistent but patient when reminding them—use a gentle, suggestive tone rather than nagging. It’s important not to make your teen feel bad about having acne. Consistent reminders without pressure can help them stay on track with their skincare routine.

4. Watch for Signs of Depression

Hormonal acne can seriously affect a teen’s emotional well-being, especially when breakouts happen before significant events like prom or a first date. Be open to talking with your teen, and watch for any signs of depression or withdrawal. Ensure they feel loved and supported. If necessary, have conversations about body positivity and self-image to reassure them during challenging moments.

5. Establish an Effective Skincare Routine

Finding a skincare routine that works is key to managing hormonal acne. Consulting a dermatologist for advice is a smart move. Educate yourself on acne medications and products, and invest in treatments that can help reduce acne and blemishes. For example, a product like hydroquinone can lighten acne scars quickly, giving your teen a boost of confidence for important events. Helping them feel radiant and ready can make all the difference.

Conclusion

Hormonal acne in teens is more than just a skin concern—it can affect their self-esteem and confidence. By taking their acne seriously, promoting a healthy lifestyle, offering support without nagging, watching for emotional challenges, and establishing a proper skincare routine, you can help your teen navigate their acne journey with greater confidence and positivity.

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Understanding Teen Skin

Teen skin is constantly changing. It’s still delicate and resembles that of a child, making it more prone to irritation and damage. Hormonal changes during puberty can trigger various skin issues, and the body’s reaction to these hormones can differ significantly from that of adult skin.

Hormonal Overload in Teens

Hormones like androgens are primarily responsible for acne during the teenage years. They stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. These hormonal changes also manifest in other ways, such as increased body hair, beard growth, and changes in voice. Naturally, the skin becomes a reflection of all these changes.

Hygiene Challenges for Adolescents

Teenagers are often inconsistent when it comes to hygiene. Skipping face-washing after a sweaty workout or not following a proper skincare routine can worsen acne. Education is crucial at this stage, as teens need guidance on the importance of cleansing their skin properly. Simple steps like washing the face, patting it dry, and using clean towels can make a big difference. Creating a step-by-step routine list can also help those who tend to forget.

Sensitivity of Teen Skin

Teen skin is more sensitive compared to adult skin, meaning harsh treatments, like strong scrubs or potent chemicals, can cause more harm than good. A gentler approach is essential to avoid irritation. We recommend using a mild pH-balanced cleanser, a daily low-strength alpha hydroxy toner to keep pores open, a spot treatment, and a gentle oil-free moisturizer.

Beard Growth and Acne

For teenage boys, growing facial hair adds a layer of complexity to skincare. Beard growth can trap dirt and oil, leading to more breakouts. Regular use of alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids can help keep pores clear, but maintaining good hygiene is essential to prevent clogged pores and buildup under the hair.

Common Mistakes Teens Make When Treating Acne

Overusing Harsh Scrubs

One of the most frequent mistakes teens make is relying on harsh scrubs to “remove” acne. In reality, these scrubs can irritate the skin, making acne worse. It’s best to avoid trendy treatments on platforms like TikTok and stick to proven gentle methods.

Choosing the Wrong Cleansers

Teens may also choose overly harsh cleansers or those not suited to their skin type. Instead of harsh chemicals, natural and herbal cleansers are more effective for sensitive teen skin.

Inconsistent Skincare Routines

Inconsistency in skincare is another issue. Skincare routines need regularity to be effective. Skipping days or only treating breakouts won’t yield results. Caregivers can help by offering support, encouragement, and positive reinforcement.

Spot Treating Acne to Prevent Scarring

Spot treatments with salicylic acid can help reduce inflammation and clear acne more quickly. ALL acne, no matter how mild, should be treated. Early treatment is crucial in preventing scarring, which can cause long-term self-esteem issues.

Post-Activity Cleansing

After physical activities, teens should always cleanse their skin. Sweat combined with dirt and oils clogs pores, leading to breakouts. A quick post-workout cleanse can prevent this. The mantra “Don’t sweat and sit” is helpful here.

Avoiding Pore-Clogging Makeup

Teens should opt for non-comedogenic makeup that won’t clog pores. This reduces the risk of makeup-related breakouts.

What are AHA and BHA?

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acids (BHA) are gentle exfoliating acids that help treat acne by removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores.

Benefits of Using Acids on Teen Skin

AHA and BHA can smooth skin texture, reduce acne scars, and keep pores clear, making them valuable for teens with persistent acne.

How to Safely Introduce Acids into a Skincare Routine

Introducing AHA and BHA into a routine should be done slowly, starting with lower concentrations to ensure skin doesn’t react negatively.

Professional Help

Acne and Hormonal Imbalances

Teens often face hormonal fluctuations that trigger severe acne. Consistent care is crucial to manage these breakouts effectively.

Identifying Moderate to Severe Acne

If acne becomes severe with large, painful breakouts, professional help may be necessary. Over-the-counter treatments may not suffice for more intense cases.

The Psychological Impact of Acne on Teens

Acne can greatly affect a teen’s self-esteem and confidence. Addressing the physical and emotional aspects of acne is important for overall well-being.

Consulting a Dermatologist

A dermatologist can provide specialized treatments for severe acne, such as prescription medications or professional procedures. Early intervention helps prevent long-term damage and scarring.

Conclusion

Treating teen acne requires a different approach than adult acne due to the tender, evolving nature of teenage skin. Avoiding harsh scrubs, using gentle cleansers, and maintaining a consistent skincare routine are essential for managing acne effectively. Incorporating AHA and BHA, practicing good hygiene, and seeking professional help when necessary can lead to clearer skin. Most importantly, teens should remember that acne is common and manageable with the right approach.

The post How Treating Teen Acne Differs from Treating Adult Acne appeared first on ZENMED Blog.

Is the Risk of Premature Aging High?

Is the risk significant enough to reconsider using benzoyl peroxide? Who should use it, and who should avoid it? Let’s delve into the details.

Pros and Cons of Benzoyl Peroxide

Like other synthetic substances, benzoyl peroxide comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Benzoyl Peroxide

• Powerful Anti-Inflammatory: Benzoyl peroxide acts as a potent anti-inflammatory, clearing bacteria from your pores and controlling inflammation.
• Effective Against Acne: It quickly clears blemishes and kills acne-causing bacteria, drying out pimples and improving skin appearance rapidly.

Cons of Benzoyl Peroxide

• Dries Out the Skin: While it dries out pimples, it can also dehydrate healthy skin, causing irritation and making your skin look older. This effect can be mitigated with a moisturizer, but this may not be an option early in your acne treatment.
• Increases Sun Sensitivity: Benzoyl peroxide can reduce your skin’s natural protection, making it more sensitive to sunlight and increasing the risk of photoaging. You can counter this by avoiding sun exposure and applying the treatment when not exposed to sunlight.
• May Cause Pigmentation Issues: Some users report hyperpigmentation due to increased sun sensitivity and skin dryness.

The Ongoing Debate

Aside from the listed pros and cons, there are numerous opinions and unproven claims online. Some say benzoyl peroxide increases free radical production and damage, leading to long-term wrinkling, although long-term studies are lacking.

Wrinkling and skin aging are often exacerbated by UV damage, and benzoyl peroxide can speed up this process by reducing your skin’s UV defenses. This damage to collagen fibers leads to lost skin elasticity. On the other hand, untreated acne can result in scarring and prominent facial lines.

If you’re unsure about using benzoyl peroxide, consult your dermatologist. Discuss your concerns and follow their advice on applying acne treatment to prevent premature skin aging. Balancing the treatment of acne with the potential for skin aging is key to maintaining healthy skin.

References:
Callender, V. D., Preston, N., Osborn, C., Johnson, L., & Gottschalk, R. W. (2010). A meta-analysis to investigate the relation between Fitzpatrick skin types and tolerability of adapalene-benzoyl peroxide topical gel in subjects with mild or moderate acne. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic
dermatology, 3(8), 15

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Hey Skincare Strugglers, Skin Cycling Might Be Your New Obsession (In a Good Way!)

Let’s face it, navigating the skincare world can feel like wandering through a jungle blindfolded looking for a celebrity to take you by the hand and bail you out. A million products promise the moon and stars, conflicting advice swirls around like mosquitoes, and you’re left wondering what on earth to put on your face to just simply make it look “better”. But fear not fellow skincare wanderers because there’s a new kid on the block that might just be your saving grace: skin cycling. Yes, that dewy, luxurious “Korean glass skin” look that prioritizes deep hydration, invisible pores, with absolutely no imperfections – all things skin cycling promotes perfectly step by step.

What’s the Deal with Skin Cycling?

Skin cycling is a simplified skincare routine designed to target skin damage like dark spots and acne scars, premature aging, sun damage and more. It involves strategically using powerful ingredients on specific nights, followed by rest nights for your skin. It is just like a four-night workout plan for your face. You alternate between using exfoliants and retinol (to tackle wrinkles and uneven skin tone), followed by recovery nights focusing on deep hydration with hyaluronic acid and nourishing moisturizers. This approach helps maximize the benefits of these ingredients while keeping your skin happy, balanced, and glowy (meaning luscious and hydrated). We call it the “affluent skin look”.

• Chemical Exfoliants: AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid) are popular options. Start with lower percentages if you have sensitive skin.

• Hyaluronic Acid Serums: Look for lightweight serums packed with hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate your skin.

• Moisturizers: Choose nourishing moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides and squalane to lock in moisture and strengthen your skin barrier.

• Retinol: Not to be confused with retinoid. This powerhouse ingredient comes in various strengths. As your skin adjusts, start with a lower dose and gradually increase.

Imagine a skincare routine that delivers results without the overwhelming ten-step extravaganza. That’s the beauty of skin cycling. This method is all about giving your skin some TLC—strategically!

Why Cycle Your Skincare You Ask?

Skin cycling is like a personalized training program for your face. You alternate between using powerful ingredients like exfoliants and retinol (wrinkle fighters), followed by recovery nights to let your skin recharge. This way, you get the benefits of these superhero products without pushing your skin to its limits and causing unpleasant reactions.

The Four-Night Skin Cycling Groove

Here’s a sneak peek into the four-night skin cycling routine:

Night 1: Buff It Out!

• Night one is all about gentle exfoliation. This can be done chemically using a light glycolic acid product (try Glycolic Resurfacer) or a manual scrub. Think of it like a super soft scrub that buffs away dead skin cells, leaving your skin smoother and ready to soak up all the good stuff from other products. It’s prepping the canvas for your skincare masterpiece! Try just a gentle buff to remove any dry flaky skin. We recommend the Organic Cream Exfoliator or Microdermabrasion Scrub.

Night 2: Retinol Rescue!

• Tonight, we unleash the power of retinol! This superhero tackles fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone like a boss. Try 1% Retinol Booster Serum. Apply a tiny amount after cleansing, followed by a layer of moisturizer to seal it all in. Try Omegaceramide+ Recover Moisturizer. New to retinol? Start slow, like once a week, and gradually increase as your skin gets used to it.

Night 3 & 4: Recharge and Rebuild

• These nights are for pure pampering. We focus on hydration and repair with a gentle cleanser, a hyaluronic acid serum (think of it as a moisture magnet!), and a nourishing moisturizer. Try B5 Hyaluronic Plumping Serum and Omegaceramide+ Recovery Moisturizer. Extra luxurious effect for drier skin types is to pat in a layer of oil, like our Omegaceramide+ Elixir in Oil.

Skin Cycling Essentials

Here are some product recommendations to get you started with skin cycling (remember to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice):

• Chemical Exfoliant: Look for options containing AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid). Choose the strength based on your skin type and tolerance.

• Retinol: Start with a low concentration and gradually increase as your skin adjusts.

• Gentle Cleanser: For use every day. This will remove makeup and impurities without stripping your skin’s natural oils. Try Gentle Cleansing Cream.

Why Should You Give Skin Cycling a High-Five?

Here’s why skin cycling might just become your holy grail skincare routine:

• Less Irritation, More Glow: By strategically using active ingredients with recovery nights, you say goodbye to the redness and irritation that can come from overdoing it. Hello happy glowy skin!

• Double Whammy of Power: Exfoliation preps your skin for better absorption of powerhouse ingredients like retinol, making them work even harder for that flawless look.

• Balanced Results: You get the benefits of exfoliation, retinol, and deep hydration, all in a balanced routine that caters to your skin’s unique needs. No more overdoing it or freaking out about what products to use when!

• Simplify Your Life: Ditch the ten-step product overload and save your sanity and cash. Skin cycling offers a streamlined approach that’s easy to remember and maintain. No more spending hours in front of the mirror wondering what goes on next.

Is Skin Cycling Your Perfect Match?

While skin cycling can be a game-changer for many, it’s important to listen to your skin. The following are some points to remember:

• Skin Type Matters: Oily and combination skin types tend to love skin cycling. Sensitive skin might need a gentler approach, maybe starting with one active ingredient at a time.

• Talk to Your Skin Guru: Dermatologists are the skincare experts! A dermatologist can assess your specific concerns and recommend the best approach, including whether skin cycling is a perfect fit for you.

The Final Verdict on Skin Cycling

Skin cycling offers a fantastic way to achieve a healthy, balanced complexion. Remember, consistency is key! Stick with the routine for a few weeks to see noticeable results. Most importantly, listen to your skin and prioritize sun protection – sunscreen is your BFF, no matter your chosen routine. So, ditch the overwhelming product overload and embrace the power of strategic simplicity with skin cycling! Your skin will thank you for it.

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Removes dead skin cells

Healthy skin renews itself every 28 days, the shedding of dead skin cells and formation of new ones is constant. However, over time renewal slows down which can lead to cellular build-up that causes the skin to become rough and dull. Exfoliation refers to the removal of the dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. Exfoliation can be performed manually, by using scrubs on the skin or chemically, by using serums that contain special kinds of acids that dissolve and remove the dead skin cells without scrubbing.

Unclog Pores

Exfoliation helps oily skin, as it refines the skin’s texture and keeps the pores free of clogged oil. It also helps to dislodge and discourage blackheads. People with dark spots, rough texture, hyper pigmentation, and acne scars know how frustrating these issues can be to treat. Exfoliants help to break down dead skin while at the same time smoothing its overall texture, making the skin appear more uniform over time.

Prevent acne

If you’re dealing with bad acne, skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, or more serious concerns, proper exfoliation removes the barrier of dead skin cells clogging the skin and uncovers fresh new cells below, which in turn allow for proper skin rejuvenation. This opens the way for moisturizing products to penetrate more deeply into under the derm, and makes them more effective. In short, a regular exfoliating routine will leave your skin looking fresh and healthy.

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Here are some common skin conditions linked to the health of your ovaries that may warrant a visit to your Doctor for a checkup:

1) Acne – The relationship between acne to your diet and metabolism has being widely researched due to the effects of insulin resistance caused by PCOS. One of the tell-tale signs of this poor balance is severe cystic acne. Since the cause of acne is multifactorial in its origin, a strong case is to be made that a poor balance of insulin in the blood caused by PCOS causes acne to increase in severity and become unmanageable without medical intervention.
2) Excess Hair Growth – Find yourself slowly growing a beard or moustache? It’s no joke that one of the tell-tale signs of PCOS is excess hair growth. This can occur on your face, your arms and legs, and even your belly. Many times it will be darker and thicker than your normal hair colour. If this is happening, get to your Doctor stat.
3) Hair Loss – The opposite can also occur. Many women who are not entering menopause and are losing their hair chock it up to just stress or hormonal changes. If you are experiencing bald spots you will need to see your Doctor for a follow up.
4) Dark Patches of Skin – Finding your armpits and the nape of your neck is getting darker in colour? This is also another sign of insulin resistance often triggered by PCOS.
5) Skin Tags – Many people suffering from high blood sugar see an uptick in the number of skin tags popping up around their neck. Don’t blame the scarf, see a Doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Your body is a system. Your hormones trigger and control many aspects of your metabolism, not just your reproductive system. And the reverse is also true. Imbalances in your reproductive system can wreak havoc on your metabolism, manifesting in all sorts of health and skin issues. If PCOS is your diagnosis, it is very important to seek help to prevent further health conditions from arising. Being healthy and balanced within will reflect itself on the outside.

The post How Healthy Are Your Ovaries? Here Are 5 Signals Your Skin Can Send appeared first on ZENMED Blog.

The Microneedler 

This device resembles what looks like tiny spikes installed on what looks like a little paint roller. The package says “Youthful Skin from Within”. I’m sold. I have been using this device for over a month and I am hooked. The basis of this skincare trend is that creating tiny tears in the upper levels of the skin turbocharges its ability to create more collagen and elastic, hence decreasing the appearance of scars and wrinkles. This device however is not recommended for acne sufferers as it can cause the bacteria that is under the skin to spread. I have been using this with the Skincorrect+ Serum to help counteract the melasma I got during pregnancy along the sides of my face. The melasma is almost 100% gone in a month. Love this thing.

The Jade Roller

Again, another device resembling a paint brush, but this time the tiny spiked roller is replaced with a smooth jade stone. Rolling it on your face feels soothing as it is nice and cool when you first use it. The basis of this device is that apparently “rolling” your skin with this device promotes a sort of lymphatic massage of the skin and they have been used since forever in China to help improve stress related skin issues (think puffy eyes, too much salt at dinner last night, not enough sleep). This helps increase circulation and approve the appearance of your face. I used it with my face oil at night and saw that my skin was very nice and flushed afterwards. I woke up with more “perkier” skin, if there is such thing. But otherwise, nothing outstanding. I would also prefer that someone else was rubbing my face with it.

The Rotating Brush

My Clarisonic was left in a hotel room a few months back and has never turned up in the lost and found. I decided to try a no-name version with a variety of brush heads. I crack open my Facial Cleansing Gel, apply a bit to the most abrasive brush that came with the pack (because I want some serious action). After the timer turns off (it does the same thing as the Clarisonic, it reminds you when its time to move to another section of the face), I rinse my face clean and I feel like I have just done my skin the biggest favour. My skin feels like I have had a facial, its glowing, fresh and clean. This is a keeper, just gotta figure out where I can locate replacement brushes once this one is toast. I pat my skin dry, apply my Skincorrect+, and lather on my Omegaceramide. Night night.

The Warm Washcloth

Yes I know what a lot of you are thinking. Even Khloe Kardashian when asked what beauty secret she followed of her mothers confessed the warm washcloth every night was the best thing ever. This may seem old school to many, but I decided I would try a night time washcloth habit for a week. Mind you I do not suffer from Rosacea or any other skin condition that is exacerbated by heat. In that case, you could try a cold one. Anyways, I shuffled into the linen section and bought a nice 6 pack of new facecloths. That night after cleansing I rinsed a cloth with as hot of water as my hands could handle and applied it to my face, spa style (sans the cucumber slices). I lay there on my pillow until it chilled (about 1 minute), then wiped my face with it. I quickly coated my skin with moisturizer while my skin was damp. My skin looked glowing and fresh and I woke up with visually more hydrated skin. I love this feeling.

I guess in all, what did I feel was the real keeper in my experiments? What would I say was the best of them all? I would have to say that the fact that I actually took 10 minutes out of my day to do this for myself was number one. Just the smallest adjustment to your day to day regime can make the biggest difference, visually and esteem-wise. So that is what I encourage firstly. Secondly, the price points of these things makes it worth it to try them all. I think in all I spent $24. And thirdly, you will see better results of your skincare products when you supplement them with a little bit of extra care to your skin.

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They are those annoying little white spots that appear around your eyes and face and don’t seem to disappear after applying makeup (unless you apply a filter to your photo). Sometimes they are mistaken for pimples, but in fact, they are very different and extremely common.

These little spots are actually called milia and we are going to get into how to get rid of them and how to prevent them from coming back.

Most milia cases are simply a buildup of dead skin cells that for some reason eventually become mini cysts. As unpleasant as it sounds, they are common among people with Rosacea and people that use makeup and skin products that can clog the pores. The bad news: attempting to pop them is highly risky since they can grow deeper into the skin and cause an even bigger milia cyst to pop up in its place. The good news: sometimes doing nothing can make them disappear on their own, but it may take a while.

So how can you make them go away permanently and prevent them from happening again?

Very simply, the buildup of keratin on the skin’s surface has caused these to appear, and sun damage and inflammatory skin conditions is what makes them considerably worse due to already having abnormal dead skin turnover. Some easy changes to your skincare regime will prevent them from occurring in the first place and make the ones you have essentially dissolve and disappear.

1. Use a toner daily after cleansing containing a gentle alpha hydroxy acid like glycolic acid or a beta hydroxy acid like salicylic acid. These are best used at night.
2. Add a retinol cream to your routine, preferably an eye serum or light gel containing retinol, and apply to the undereye area. Anything with retinol keeps the skin smooth and bump free.
3. Try switching to a tinted moisturizer or BB cream instead of the heavy foundation. Ensure your face powder does not contain silica that can bury into the skin and stick to mineral instead. Avoid any powder with the ingredient of talc.
4. Get a microdermabrasion treatment done about every 6-8 weeks or try an at-home product once a week, the difference in skin texture after even a few treatments is dramatic.

Essentially causing the skin to turnover rapidly will prevent these pesky little cysts from forming in the first place. Just after a few weeks of change to your skincare regime, you will be on the path to having smoother, younger-looking, healthy flaw free skin.

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A familiar experience for every woman is where you invest in a pricey vitamin serum or any other skin care product expecting some life-changing magic, which never seems to come. On the contrary, you get a crop of pimples, worse than before. Changing products can be both financially but healthily hectic. New products can cause skin breakouts if:

1.) You don’t follow direction

Every skin care product has its own set of guidelines and directions for use. Sometimes, disregarding these directions can have serious effects on your skin. It is important to follow the instructions given. A gentle application is necessary for the product to reach its target location. Practice a soft touch and use the product as advised by your dermatologist or the manufacturer.

2.) You over/under use a product

Over usage will not clear the breakout as much as you would like it to. You may be tempted to think that a higher dosage will achieve results in the shortest time possible. However, this is a great misconception. On the contrary, over-usage causes more redness and dryness and does not clear the acne.

In other cases, people quickly lose motivation if they do not see quick results. You can’t expect results overnight. You have to be patient with the process. Therefore, clearly follow the medication instructions and do not give up in the second week.  Under treatment fails to treat the breakouts. So can spot treating. It often does not fully treat acne because you have not treated the area next to it. A battle half done is not done at all.

3.) You use too many products

Sometimes, you may be tempted to use multiple products e.g. layering on multiple serums or moisturizers. However, this can be very dangerous. Too many products can counteract each other causing skin irritation. Moreover, the products may not be absorbed properly hence they clog the pores. Inevitably, a breakout is bound to occur. Changing products often because of delayed results will only irritate your skin.

It has been observed that self-treating acne can distress the skin which results in bigger lesions which often heal with spots and scars.   Stick to the product recommended to you by your dermatologist and patiently wait for the results.

4.) You have combination skin

Combination skin is basically co-occurrence of both dry and oily skin whereby your skin is dry in some areas and oily in others. It mostly a hereditary issue. The type of skincare products you use can cause or worsen this problem if they are not designed for this type of skin. The products you use should not contain harsh or skin-aggravating ingredients. These will dry out some areas of your face and simultaneously stimulate the production of oil in other parts. Therefore, the oil accumulates on your pores and clogs them causing a breakout. We can conclude that new products can cause breakouts for combination skin if they are not formulated for such skin.

Painful pimples can be a result of an adjustment to the new skincare products. This is why you should give them time to do their job and also start with a test patch. Remember that acne is both an external and internal condition so it is important to look at your lifestyle and diet as well.

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Here are a few things you can do for your teen to boost his self-confidence against his/her battle with acne and similar skin concerns:

1 – Take Hormonal Acne Seriously

7 out of 10 parents do not take teenage acne seriously, according to a recent survey. This can further frustrate teens. Hearing things like, ‘it’s only hormonal’ ‘it’ll go away with time’ just will not go very far in soothing them. If your teenager is having acne, acknowledge it and offer your support to fix it. Start with some over-the-counter acne medications. Search ingredients that are effective to fight acne such as salicylic acid. If the acne is getting painful, exists mainly under the surface of the skin, or is what you would term moderate to severe, consult your doctor. You may require a referral to a specialist before the condition starts to leave scars and permanently damages the skin.

2 – Diet & Exercise

When you eat well, you feel good. Maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle can act as an excellent confidence booster for your teen in addition to acne creams and other acne medication you are offering them. Make sure they are not suffering from any other body image issues. Take them on a run with you. Instill body positivity in their minds. Adopting a low glycemic diet and adhering to a “no whites at night” eating pattern can make a dramatic difference. But give it time to work, at least 6-8 weeks of low glycemic eating before coming to any conclusions.

3 – Remind, Don’t Nag

Getting your teen to use their acne medication regularly might not be a piece of cake. You have to be persistent but patient. Be careful as not to adopt a nagging tone when reminding your teen about acne medicines. Adopt a suggestive tone. Apply pressure by telling them to adopt a routine before bed, or wash your face when they do as well.

4 – Watch out for Signs of Depression

Remember the days when a pimple would pop up on your face and you would feel like Krakatoa just erupted in the middle of your forehead? When asking your friends they would say “oh yeah, don’t worry it’s just a zit”. Remember that we are our worst enemies sometimes when it comes to criticism.  Teens are children, still very influenceable and very malleable Talk to your teen. Look out for signs of depression. Make sure your teen feels loved and cared for often. Give them a pep talk about body positivity and self-image if you deem fit. Watch carefully for signs of giving up activities they once adored and refusing to engage in social engagements. Some might just chalk these things up to being a normal teen.

5 – Maintain an Acne Skincare Routine that Works

Most importantly, work on curing the hormonal acne of your teen. There is a lot of misinformation out there on the internet and wacky claims of “natural cures”. Stick with what the researchers have found that works and save your teen from disappointment. Frequent failures may make them feel like they are abnormal. Coconut oil, lemon juice, and avocado masks will not treat anaerobic acne bacteria, so save those for dinner. Cutting out milk, red meat, white pasta, white rice, bananas, and most cheeses have been researched a lot as of late and may be the right assist alongside a good topical treatment plan.

Got comments or questions? We would love to hear from you.

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