Teenagers have a lot to deal with. Their bodies go through a lot of changes including hormones and this can not only affect them on the inside emotionally and mentally, but it can also change their bodies and increase their hormones. This increase or change in hormones can cause spots to develop. Acne can be part of that process and although it is most common on the face, it can affect other parts of the body too, particularly the chest, shoulders and back.
What Is Acne?
Acne is an inflammatory condition of the skin that causes pimples and pustules to develop. Although it is not only the domain of the teenager, it is more common amongst teenagers.
Can I Treat It At Home Myself?
There are a number of home remedies or over the counter solutions available, but these are not considered to be particularly helpful in treating or reducing the inflammation. However, most people will try these first before visiting their medical practitioner for further treatment. Dermatologists feel that the earlier the treatment is commenced the better the chances of eradicating or managing the condition. If left untreated by anything, the pustules and pimples will more than likely cause unsightly scarring once they have erupted and discharged their contents. If there is anything worse for a teenager than acne, it is scarring from the acne. Once scarring has occurred it is unlikely to remove or resolve itself and will require a specialist intervention if you want to be totally scar-free.
Consulting A Medical Professional
Once you have plucked up the courage to visit your medical practitioner, they may be able to prescribe certain medication to help the acne initially, depending on how long you have bene suffering with it and how severe it is.
However, sometimes it may need stronger treatment that can only be prescribed by a Dermatologist. In which case you will be referred to that specialist. Sometimes the diagnosis may differ once you are assessed by a Dermatologist, as they are a professional in that field.
Once you have been given a course of treatment, your acne should respond quickly. Although it is not unusual for your Dermatologist to change your treatment or vary the dose according to your response. If you have left it quite some time before seeing a Dermatologist you may have already developed scarring, so what can be done about that?
Non-Surgical Solutions For Acne
There are a range of options available to help remove the scarring caused as an after-effect of the acne. Chemical peels is one such option. This sounds a bit more brutal than it is. Generally, the skin is coated with a chemical mixture that encourages the skin to shed the damaged top layer of dead skin cells. The new skin that will grow in its place will be healthy and vibrant and scar-free. There is also the prospect of a laser treatment for acne, but this is a little more invasive and is generally reserved for less troublesome bouts of acne.
This article was not written by Dr. Robert S. Fischer M.D and may not represent his views. To talk to Dr. Robert S. Fischer M.D. please contact the office directly.
