What the Experts Say
Psychologist Dr. Julie Sullivan recommends:
- When talking to your teen, first acknowledge how upset he or she is.
- Try to understand what's making it so hard to handle and collaborate to solve the problem.
- Decide if it´s best to see a dermatologist or wait for it to clear up on its own.
- Empower your child by letting him/her help take this proactive step.
Dermatologist Dr. Michele Grodberg recommends:
DO:
- Be patient. It can take up to six weeks to see a change.
- Use a gentle cleanser 2x daily; 3x daily for oily skin and after exercise.
- For mild acne, use over-the counter products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
- For moderate acne, use Rx medication (Vitamin A derivatives like retinoid) and topical antibiotics.
- For severe acne, consider birth-control pills and low-dose antibiotics.
DON´T:
- Over wash or scrub the skin. It can stimulate the oil glands.
- Pick your pimples!
Richard Vega, Clifton Park, NY 09/27/08
Don't sweat the small stuff. I went through the worst acne no one should ever have to go through. I'm now 48 and still experience outbreaks. There's nothing you can do but to keep your face clean from dirt. But the main thing is to keep your cool,stay calm, and get on with your life.
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