About Acne
Acne Information For Teen Girls
The main cause of acne is clogged pores. The oil in your skin, called sebum, is one cause of clogged pores. Two other causes of clogged pores include dead skin cells and bacteria.
Sebum production is sensitive to hormones, and our bodies make more sebum when hormones surge.3
In most cases, acne can be treated. An over-the-counter medication may work, but you may need to see a dermatologist. Your dermatologist can also prescribe medication.3 If you do not have a dermatologist, click here to find a physician near you.
Many girls with acne are surprised that they can wear makeup while going through acne treatment. You can even use moisturizer and sunscreen. It is important to choose "oil-free" or "noncomedogenic" cosmetics, or those that state "won't clog pores." You may have to experiment to find the best cosmetics for your skin. Your dermatologist is a good source of information about which products to use.3
Diet and acne are discussed often, but the fact is that acne is not caused by food, and it can't be cleared with a strict diet. It is important for your health to eat a balanced diet with healthy foods.3
Tanning and acne are also important to consider. Many girls feel that sunlight helps. While there is no proven beneficial effect of sunlight on acne, we do know that ultraviolet light from the sun increases your risk of cancer and early skin aging. Additionally, many acne treatments can cause extra sun sensitivity, so it is important to talk to your dermatologist about how to use the product, read directions on medication, and use sunscreen.3
Successful skin acne treatment means getting it under control and keeping it under control. Once you see signs of acne, the earlier you start treatment, the sooner you may see the results of treatment.3