Acne in adolescents: impact on daily life and tips for better management

Dr. Marc-André Doré

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Acne is a common skin condition that primarily affects teenagers, although it can also persist into adulthood. It is usually caused by hormonal changes, excessive sebum production and clogged hair follicles. Acne can have a significant impact on teenagers' daily lives, affecting their self-esteem, social relationships and emotional well-being. This article discusses the challenges teens face when suffering from acne and offers tips on how to better manage the condition.

Impact of acne on the daily life of adolescents

Self-esteem and body image

Adolescence is a crucial developmental period when self-esteem and body image are formed. Acne can cause feelings of insecurity and discomfort, leading to low self-esteem and negative body image. This can be especially difficult for teens who are already dealing with the physical and emotional changes associated with puberty.

Social relationships and isolation

Acne can also have an impact on teenagers' social relationships. Negative stereotypes and judgments associated with acne can lead to teasing or derogatory remarks from peers, which can lead to social isolation and loneliness. In addition, teens with acne may avoid certain social activities for fear of judgment or embarrassment.

School performance and stress

Acne can also affect teens' academic performance, as concerns about their appearance and self-esteem can interfere with their concentration and motivation. In addition, the stress of managing acne can make symptoms worse, creating a vicious cycle.

Tips to help manage teen acne

  1. Consult a healthcare professional

    It is important to consult a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of acne. Effective treatment can reduce the appearance of acne, improve self-esteem and lessen the impact on daily life.

  2. Adopt a proper skin care routine

    A proper skin care routine can help control acne and prevent future breakouts. Teens should cleanse their face with a gentle cleanser, use non-comedogenic (non pore-clogging) products and apply a topical treatment prescribed by a dermatologist, if necessary.

  3. Avoid touching or popping pimples

    Touching or popping pimples can make acne worse and cause scarring. Teach teens to resist the temptation to touch their face and follow their dermatologist's advice to treat acne properly.

  4. Encourage a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle

    Although research on the link between diet and acne is still ongoing, it is still beneficial for teens to eat a balanced diet and live a healthy lifestyle. Encourage the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats, and limit processed and high sugar foods. Quality sleep and regular exercise can also contribute to overall well-being and healthier skin.

  5. Support mental health

    It's important to recognize the impact of acne on teens' mental health and offer emotional support. Encourage teens to express their feelings and concerns, and to discuss their experiences with friends, family members or a counselor. Teens can also benefit from participating in support groups, either in person or online, to share experiences and advice with others facing similar challenges.

Acne in adolescents can have a significant impact on their daily lives, affecting their self-esteem, social relationships and emotional well-being. Seeing a healthcare professional, adopting a proper skin care routine, avoiding touching or popping pimples, promoting a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, and supporting teenagers' mental health are crucial to better manage this condition. By implementing these tips, teens can better manage the challenges of acne and live more fulfilling lives.

Get an online consultation with a dermatologist
Adult acne

Looking to learn more?

These are some articles that may interest you

Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Treatment for Radiant Skin

Dr Marc-André Doré

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment is a non-invasive technique that uses pulsating light beams to address various skin conditions and enhance the skin's appearance. Unlike lasers, which use a single wavelength, pulsed light utilizes a broad spectrum of light, making it versatile for treating multiple skin issues. Let's discuss the different conditions that can be treated with IPL.

Read more
Acne

Monday, February 19, 2024

A dermatologist's guide to Accutane(™)

Dr Marc-André Doré

Living with severe acne can be difficult, especially as a young adult. Various treatments are available to treat acne and you should always consult with a dermatologist to get the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. In the realm of...
Read more
Acne

Monday, December 11, 2023

Managing Acne During Pregnancy

When a pregnant person is dealing with pre-existing acne issues, managing this condition becomes a delicate challenge. Maintaining a prescribed treatment while ensuring the safety of the fetus is a crucial concern. Here are some tips for...
Read more
Acne