Teen acne is a common skin concern that affects many adolescents as they go through puberty. Understanding the causes, types, and treatments of teen acne can help you manage breakouts effectively and achieve clear, healthy skin.

What Causes Teen Acne?

Teen acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. During adolescence, hormonal changes can trigger excess oil production, leading to clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. Additionally, bacteria, genetics, and an overactive immune response can contribute to the development of acne in teens.

Teen Acne vs. Adult Acne

While acne can occur at any age, teen acne is often more widespread and associated with hormonal fluctuations during puberty. Unlike adult acne, which is usually more localized and can be triggered by factors like stress and diet, teen acne is primarily influenced by the rapid hormonal changes taking place in the body.

FAQs ON TEEN ACNE

Can my diet affect my teen acne?

Yes, diet can impact acne in teens. Foods with a high glycemic index, such as sugary snacks and processed carbohydrates, as well as dairy products, may contribute to breakouts. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support clearer skin.

Are there any skincare ingredients I should avoid if I have teen acne?

Yes, avoid skincare products with heavy oils or comedogenic ingredients that can clog pores and worsen acne. Look for products labeled as non-comedogenic and oil-free.

Can I wear makeup if I have teen acne?

Yes, you can wear makeup if you have teen acne, but it is important to choose non-comedogenic and oil-free makeup products to avoid clogging pores. Always ensure you thoroughly remove your makeup at the end of the day to prevent breakouts.

Does teen acne always go away on its own?

While many teens may experience a reduction in acne as they get older and their hormones stabilize, some may need to actively treat their acne to manage breakouts effectively.

What is skin purging?

Skin purging is a temporary phase of breakouts that can occur when new skincare products accelerate the skin's natural exfoliation process. This brings underlying impurities to the surface more quickly than usual.

It is often a sign that the product is working to clear out the congestion beneath the surface of the skin.

When you start using a new product that increases cell turnover, such as a retinoid or exfoliating acid, your skin sheds dead cells faster.

This rapid shedding can push out oil, bacteria, and other debris trapped within the pores, leading to the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads, or even cystic acne.

Although this can be frustrating, purging generally indicates that the product is effectively clearing the skin.

Am I purging or is this product breaking me out?

Skin Purging:

• Duration: Typically lasts 4-6 weeks, but this can vary depending on the product and individual skin type.

• Location: Breakouts often occur in areas where you usually experience acne or clogged pores.

• Appearance: May include small pimples, whiteheads, or blackheads that heal faster than typical breakouts.

Adverse Reaction or Breakout:

• Duration: Can persist or worsen over time if the product continues to be used.

• Location: May appear in new areas where you don’t typically get acne.

• Appearance: Often includes red, inflamed pimples, itching, or burning sensations.

Pro Tips for Managing Teen Acne

Stay Consistent: Follow a regular skincare routine with gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and targeted treatments to manage acne and prevent breakouts.

Avoid Touching Your Face: Keep your hands away from your face to prevent the spread of bacteria and reduce the risk of acne flare-ups.

Moisturize Daily: Even if your skin is oily, using a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer is important to maintain its balance. Over-drying your skin can lead to increased oil production, which may worsen acne.

Choose the Right Products: Use skincare products formulated for acne-prone skin to effectively manage and treat breakouts.

SUGGESTED REGIMEN FOR TEEN ACNE

CLEANSE A.M. + P.M.

Regularly cleanse your face with a deep-cleaning cleanser suitable for acne, such as the Instant Shine Stop Cleanser.

Use this cleanser only in the evening to remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities from the skin. 

In the morning, wash your face with lukewarm water to refresh your skin without stripping away its natural moisture.

After cleansing, apply STAR RESCUE Clarifying Toner with a cotton ball to remove excess oil and visibly tighten the appearance of pores.

A.M. Routine

After cleansing and toning, apply the Repairing Day Cream to your face to hydrate and protect the skin.

Don’t forget your SPF! A broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential to protect against sun damage and prevent further acne flare-ups.

P.M. Routine

In the evening, after cleansing and toning, apply Night Cream Intense to nourish your skin overnight, focusing on avoiding areas with larger pimples or acne. 

For those spots, use Over Night Magic to target acne more effectively.

SPOT TREATMENT MASK

While the sun can temporarily dry out acne, it can worsen it over time. A more effective way to address acne is with the STAR RESCUE Pink Clay Treatment Mask. 

Use this mask up to three times per week to absorb excess oil and reduce acne. Leave it on for 10-20 minutes, then rinse off. 

Follow with either the Repairing Day Cream or Night Cream Intense to hydrate and nourish the skin.