Living with acne is hard at any age, but especially for teenagers. Let’s face it, kids are mean! Pizza face, Zitty McPimpleson, Scar Face, the name calling alone can be hard to handle. As a parent it is important for you take notice in your teen’s appearance and social struggles. Their lives are hard enough as it is without having to worry about being the butt of someone’s acne joke. Take a look below to see what you could be doing to support your teen with acne.  

Tell them they are not alone in this! They are totally normal!   

It is very normal for teenagers to suffer through acne flare-ups. If your teen is suffering, let them know they are not alone in this! In fact, it is estimated that over 80% of people ages 11-30 have acne breakouts at some point. [1] It is important for your teen to know that you understand what they are going through. Many teens have that attitude that no one gets them, and no one could possibly know how they are feeling. It doesn’t have to be this way with their acne! Even if their peers aren’t going through it as bad as they are, everyone has their breakout days!

Try to reduce stress

As an adult it can be hard to relate to the stresses that teens go through on a daily basis. While they may not be working full time jobs or raising kids, teens have a ton of stress on them regularly and stress can be a very powerful acne trigger. If your teen is suffering from acne try to help them relax! Exams, romantic interests, friendships, extracurricular activities can all add up equaling one big ball of teenage angst. Try talking with them. See what is most stressful for them and what you can do to help them. Maybe even suggest a morning yoga routine together so you can both relax, you deserve it! 

Watch for signs of Depression

Physical appearance is very important in a teenager’s life. If they feel like they are different than everyone else, or if they are constantly made fun of, it is likely they will suffer from low self-esteem. The longer your teen is suffering from acne the more likely it is for this to occur. It is important for parents to notice these changes in behavior and be on the lookout for signs that point to depression. 

Give your teen the option of talking to the doctor alone.

Last, but certainly not least, take your teen to their dermatologist! A lot of times over the counter medications are not enough and medical intervention could work wonders for them. It is important for you to allow your teen the option of discussing their issues with the doctor alone. There may be some things they are not comfortable talking about in front of you, and that is perfectly normal. Giving your teen the freedom they need to talk openly may make all the difference for them. If your teen is suffering from acne schedule their appointment with Alamo Heights Dermatology today!