Acne often occurs during the tween years because of the hormonal changes that take place in the body, this can be upsetting for children and affect their self esteem.
There are four main types of acne:
- Blackheads
- Pimples
- Cysts
- Whiteheads
Most acne is caused by a build-up of sebum, dirt and oil on and under the skin's surface. Pores become clogged and then a visible bump or pimple will begin to appear.
Significance
Most acne that occurs in later childhood is temporary and will go away without any type of treatment. However, in some cases the tween years can cause acne and can be severe. This occurs as the hormonal changes of puberty take place. In some cases, an acne outbreak can occur from improper washing of the face or upper body. Make sure your tween understands they should wash their face daily and avoid wearing makeup or applying greasy lotions. Showering regularly is also necessary as excessive sweating and high levels of humidity can lead to acne.
Identification
Blackheads occur when the pore is clogged but its surface remains open to reveal the dirt or blackish colour. Pimples are red inflamed bumps that are often in clusters under the skin. Cysts are a type of inflammation that occurs deep under the skin from clogged pores, they can be painful and unsightly. Whiteheads are closed pores that are clogged with sebum, but reveal a whitish head that includes dead skin cells.
Effects
One of the biggest concerns of tween acne is its unsightly appearance. Scarring is often an issue with severe acne which can lead to poor body image, embarrassment, social withdrawal, trouble building relationships, depression and poor body image. This can negatively affect a tween's social life and how they interact with others.
Treatment
Seeking medical help for cases of moderate to severe acne will help your tween get the treatment he needs. Often times, a topical cream is recommended to help dry out the skin. An antibiotic may also be prescribed to help heal underlying infections or prevent the acne from getting worse. A dermatologist may also prescribe or recommend a daily cleanser and toner that you can use to help prevent outbreaks.
