Skin-Deep Beauty

Your teenager or pre-teen is looking forward to the excitement, fun and benefits of being a teenager. But one issue that often occurs during the teen years—acne or other skin issues—is not among the list of anticipated benefits.

What can you do to help your teens head off or lessen the impact of the skin issues that almost inevitably occur as they begin to mature? The key, according to Dr. Sunil Dhawan, a dermatologist with the Center for Dermatology in Fremont, “is to begin early and take aggressive action when the first bumps appear, or even before.”

Dr. Dhawan says children, especially pre-teens, should use sunscreen regularly to protect their skin. “This early action can help head off more serious skin problems, such as acne, that can occur in a year or two.”

He recommends early, aggressive treatment for those first bumps. This includes over the-counter creams like adapalene and benzoyl peroxide, among others. And, he warns, a lack of consistency in maintaining a skin regimen can lead to more serious teen skin problems. “It is essential for youngsters to moisturize regularly and aggressively, especially when outside.” Everyone — whatever their age — should use sunscreen while outside to protect against a variety of skin problems, some of which can lead to skin cancer.

If/when more bumps appear and begin to turn into whiteheads, blackheads and pimples, it’s time to treat the skin with more advanced anti-acne medications to reduce inflammation and control the acne. Dr. Dhawan recommends seeing your family doctor or a dermatologist for an evaluation and treatment recommendations. These may include products to unclog pores, anti-inflammation medications, oral antibiotics, male hormone blockers in females, birth control pills, and in some cases Accutane. Many require a prescription but are important in controlling acne.

He cautions teens against trying to pop pimples themselves, as that will only lead to scaring. “Pimple extractions must only be undertaken by a dermatologist who can do the job without leaving scars.” Acne is caused by blocked oil glands, bacteria and hormones. It begins with blackheads and whiteheads, and then becomes red and inflamed pimples that can turn into scars and pigment spots. The scarring and pain from pimples can lead to poor self-esteem and/or depression in teens. Dr. Dhawan warns, “This is why it’s so important to take action early.”

Myths versus Facts

Acne myths include: washing your face will make it better (overwashing and rubbing actually can make it worse); facials help (they don’t); you will grow out of it (eventually when you are 30, but by then you have scars that are difficult to treat). Certain foods can make it worse is another myth. Dr. Dhawan notes. “Not usually, but long-term eating of foods rich in simple carbohydrates such as rice and breads may increase acne risk.” He recommends eating more complex carbohydrates like fruits and vegetables.

Oily skin often is blamed for acne. “It may or may not be related,” Dr. Dhawan notes, “but the only way of reducing oily skin is by some creams and washes, or by using Accutane.”

Other Teen Skin Issues

Teens can face other issues in addition to acne such as large skin pores, dandruff, foot and body odor, increased sweating and, in some cases, loss of hair. Most of these issues can be managed with attentive care.

Recommendations include:

• Manage dandruff with over-the-counter shampoos, though more severe cases should be treated by a dermatologist.
• Select a makeup foundation with SPF-30 sunscreen.
• Reduce the size of skin pores with certain anti-acne creams. But Dr. Dhawan explains, “The over-the-counter creams and washes that aren’t specifically anti-acne do not work.”
• Treat dry skin with a good cream moisturizer. Simple bar soaps like Ivory or Dove usually are the best and least expensive. Anti-bacterial soaps aren’t needed except for frequent skin infections. Liquid body washes aren’t needed and perfumed washes and soaps can cause rashes and itching.

“Don’t forget,” Dr. Dhawan emphasizes, “the key to heading off or managing acne is early action during pre-teen years, consistent attention always, and medical oversight for more advanced cases.” For more information on the Center for Dermatology, visit centerforderm.com.