Over the Counter Solutions for Adolescent Acne: No Appointment Necessary

Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, July 23 and November 12, 2006

Show 319

It's a fact of life. If you have adolescents at home, you're probably gonna have to help them deal with acne. Close to 100 percent of all people age 12 to 20, have whiteheads, blackheads or pimples, regardless of their race or ethnic background. Adolescents are much more likely to get acne because their hormone levels are elevated. And extra hormones can stimulate the sebaceous glands. The tiny sebaceous glands are attached to hair follicles that produce an oily substance called sebum. Acne blemishes occur when follicles get plugged with sebum and dead skin cells. Most mild cases of acne can be controlled at home by gently washing affected areas and using a topical preparation, like benzoyl peroxide. If the acne doesn't improve in 6 to 8 weeks, you may want to make an appointment for your adolescent to see a good dermatologist. Acne that ranges from moderate to severe typically needs prescription medications to clear up. The good news for adolescents today, is that virtually every case of acne can be controlled.