Dermatology: Common Teen Skin Problems

Parents look to dermatology to solve their teens skin concerns. If your child is having these types of issues and you aren't sure what to do, talking to a professional can help both of you. These are not the easiest years for most kids and as a parent; you want to do all you can to give your son or daughter an extra measure of self-esteem. Here are a few common concerns that may require a doctor's appointment.

Acne:
It can be so disheartening to look in the mirror in the morning and notice a breakout of acne. For some teens, a consistent skin care routine is sufficient to rid their complexions from the occasional zit. It could be related to anything from stress to hormonal changes. When the problem becomes severe, patients turn to dermatology to offer alternate solutions.

There are over-the-counter products that contain various acids like benzoyl peroxide that can be used to get a handle on acne. You can ask the dermatologist for his or her recommendation. When that does not help or the issues start to get worse, it is time to consider prescriptions like antibiotics. A doctor can also suggest different treatments using lasers or lights. These are only offered under the supervision of an expert in dermatology. In most cases, this is reserved for patients with severe acne.

Excess Oils (Oily Skin):
Some teens struggle with oils that consistently show up on the face. Sometimes this is the cause of serious breakouts. Other times, the oil itself is the problem. With dermatology, a patient can come in and speak with the doctor about the concern. There are products that can dry up the skin. Most contain some type of alcohol.

Again, in more severe cases, a dermatologist can recommend a laser treatment that will be able to dry up the skin for several months. Instead of trying to wash the skin all the time, limit the amount of washing to twice a day and keep the skin care routine consistent.

Warts:
No matter what age you are, warts make you self-conscious. While your primary care physician can handle these things, you can always talk with a dermatology specialist for more information. If your teen is experiencing warts frequently, a dermatologist can recommend ways to try and avoid reoccurrence.

Internet searches, talks with your primary care physician and even over-the-counter products can help with many of the skin issues that teens experience. But talking to a dermatologist is a great way to learn more about the condition and come up with solutions. A specialist can help your teen regain his or her self-confidence and help them establish skin care routines and habits that will benefit them now and in the future.