Acne Issues??

If you have a teenager or if you remember your teenager days, you probably know what a pain skin issues, particularly acne, can be.
Because acne is often visible to others, appearing on the face or neck, it can easily cause someone to feel self-conscious.  The good news is that there are things your teen can do and be aware of that can help them kick acne to the curb!  So, if you have a teenager who is wanting to put a new face on this school year, share with them about what makes acne worse and what the best ways are to care for it!.
Acne Aggravators 

• Fluctuation of hormone levels in teenage girls (and adult women) 2 to 7 days prior to the start of their period
• Bike helmet, backpack, and tight collar irritation (i.e. wearing any too tight)
• Pollution and high humidity
• Squeezing or picking at pimples
• Scrubbing the skin too roughly

What to do for blemishes…

• Gently clean skin with a mild cleanser in the morning, evening, and after strenuous workouts (i.e. football, softball practice, etc.).
• Avoid squeezing, picking, or pinching pimples – all of which can result in scars or dark spots (no way to take a yearbook photo!).
• If your teen is using an acne medicine, they should be very careful about protecting their skin from the sun – many acne medicines can make people more likely to burn.
• Encourage your son to shave carefully.  Softening the skin with soap and water before putting on shaving cream is a good idea.  Don’t shave more than necessary.
• Help your daughter find oil-free make-up.  Also, look for the word “noncomedogenic,” which means that the make-up won’t clog pores.
• Shampoo hair on a regular basis.

TIP:  Help your kids reclaim their skin by encouraging them to follow these simple tips!
Source: “Acne.”  National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.