The population most affected by acne is teenagers. Almost every teen in the world will experience at least one breakout of acne during their adolescence. Acne can range from mild to severe acne in which teens experience blackheads, whiteheads, and cystic acne, however the condition depends on the individual. Also common among teens is body or back acne that can affect the back, chest, and shoulders. Fortunately there are a wide range of teenage acne treatments available that target teen acne and its relationship to hormonal changes.

Causes of Teenage Acne

During puberty, teenagers experience changes in their bodies as well as changes in hormone levels. Unstable hormones can create effects such as growth spurts, body hair, moodiness, as well as highly active glands. One type of gland, called the sebaceous gland, is responsible for producing sebum, an oily secretion that helps keep hair and skin moisturized. These glands get bigger and produce more sebum during adolescent hormone imbalance. Teenagers have higher risks of acne due to these factors of increased gland activity and elevated levels of sebum production.

Acne starts within these sebum glands when damage is done to healthy living cells. This damage is possible through the sheer force of sebum output, a common factor during adolescent hormonal change. Hardened sebum as well as oil and dead skin cells within the follicle can also damage living cells. The body's immune response is inflammatory which inflames and reddens the skin and can cause what we know as pimples. Teenagers tend to be more at risk for acne if they have a parent who suffered from teen acne or still struggles with adult acne.

Teenage Acne Treatment

Teenage acne treatments come in many shapes and forms including topical spot treatment, acne creams, prescribed medications, and a variety of natural skin care therapies. Unfortunately there is no cure for acne and the success of skin care products really depends on each individual. However, the most important thing is to be knowledgeable about the process of acne and how to choose a product that will successfully treat its root causes, not just its symptoms. Abrasive and overly strong medications are not how you should treat teenage acne. In most cases acne conditions will get better on their own with the decrease in adolescent hormonal imbalances. You should avoid harsh treatments that might damage skin cells long after the recovery of teenage acne. Instead, an organic acne treatment cream is a better choice if you can find one that effectively addresses the root causes of acne and can treat them naturally.

Skin Friendly Diet

Diet changes could also help in the treatment of acne. However, the common myth that acne results from eating chocolate or greasy foods is not true. The foods you eat will not lessen hormones imbalances nor sebum output. Nevertheless, healthy skin needs a healthy diet that includes the right vitamins and nutrients. Diet is important during adolescence as the body is growing and needs enough to do so healthily as well as maintain a strong immune system. Additionally, people who eat well balanced diets tend to be less stressed, which can help control sebum output and therefore acne condition.