Why do Teenagers Get Acne?

Zits are a teenager’s greatest terror. No teenager would like to have an unsightly pimple on any part of his or her face. These red, swollen spots forming on the cheek, nose, or face can really bring one’s confidence down. They can decrease the teenagers’ physical appeal greatly, causing some negative effects on their self esteem.

Statistics show that 8 out of 10 teens suffer from acne. Acnes are bumps forming on the surface of the skin. They are alternatively known as whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, and pimples. While many adults suffer from the same condition, teenagers are the ones most prone to it. This is because acnes have a lot to do with puberty.

The hormonal change that teenagers go through as they enter puberty is the thing that triggers the formation of acne. This is the period when the teen’s oil glands over produce oils that are intended for skin and hair lubrication. Too much oil causes clogged pores. And if they combine with dead skin cells, acne forms. The presence of bacteria inside the layers of dead skin cells leads to redness, swelling, and irritation.

Acnes have different types but they are generally the same. They are all caused by propionibacterium acnes. Whiteheads form when the clogged pore closes and then bulges out of the skin. On the other hand, the acne becomes a blackhead when the clogged pores are opened and the topmost surface darkens. The red acne bumps are called pimples. They form when the pores open and allow the entry of bacteria, dead skin cells, and sebum into the skin. Pimples are the painful, pus-filled type of acne that teenagers detest the most.

There are many other reasons and fallacies as to why teenagers get acnes. There are reports linking acnes to greasy foods, chocolates, and sodas. While this isn’t true to all teenagers, those who have sensitivity to these food items are at risk to skin breakouts. As such, you should be very wary when eating them.

There are also some who say that acne is triggered by stress. However, stress alone doesn’t cause acne, although it can worsen the situation. When one is stressed or tired, the oil glands produce more sebum. The sebum, in turn, would block the pores and unite with bacteria. That’s when acne forms.

If you have acne, it is best that you follow proper hygiene. Wash your face regularly with warm water and mild soap. There are anti-acne soaps available today. However, some may not work with your skin type. To be sure, consult a dermatologist about it first.