5 Tips For Teens Struggling with Severe Acne

There’s no doubt about it, acne is a frustrating and persistent condition that wreaks havoc on the skin and the confidence alike. For teens struggling with severe acne, such chronic inflammation and irritation of the skin can lead to emotional turmoil, social anxiety, and overall aggravation. Severe acne is often categorized as cystic acne, which develops when skin pores become clogged with dead skin and bacteria, become red and swollen, and form deep, pus-filled pimples that spread infection to the rest of the face. The hormonal changes facing teenagers during puberty put them at especially high risk of severe acne, but these five tips can help teens reclaim their clear skin.

Take Nutritional Supplements

Skin problems can often be traced back to nutritional deficiencies in the body, so taking supplements for specific vitamins and minerals can help keep the body and skin properly nourished. Vitamin A, C, E, zinc, and omega 3 fatty acids are all known to improve the appearance of the skin and reduce the power of acne.

Try Not To Touch

It’s tempting to squeeze, pop, and touch big pimples in the hopes that they will disappear, but all of that touching only makes matters worse. Keep hands off, especially since any dirt or oil on the skin is bound to instigate more inflammation.

Keep Skin Clean

The trick to an acne skincare routine is to keep the skin clean without over washing. Excessive scrubbing can actually make acne worse because it tricks the skin’s oil glands into thinking it needs to create more oil, thus leading to clogged pores and worse acne. Teens with severe acne should wash twice a day with a gentle soap designed specifically for acne and recommended by an experienced dermatologist.

Flush Your System of Toxins

It makes sense that a body overwhelmed by toxins and processed foods might have acne-prone skin, because the body’s toxic waste is partially released through sweating. When those contaminants are released into the skin, they clog the pores and cause pimples to form. The best way to counteract this is drinking water throughout the day and selecting fresh whole foods over processed junk.

Talk to Your Dermatologist

Of course, severe acne requires the attention of a dermatologist, who can prescribe powerful medications to help fight the effects of acne and push for clear skin. Dr. Lombardi has years of experience helping teens overcome their acne using various treatment systems.