Ways to Get Rid of Acne or Pimples During Adolescence!

       When we take care of a plant daily, it grows well and quickly. Similarly, if we take care of our skin properly every day, it will grow well, but if we neglect it or don’t care for it properly, it may grow, but it won’t be strong or of good quality. Why am I saying this? Because during adolescence, the skin is just like that plant. At this time, the skin is very delicate, and if not properly cared for, it can become so damaged that fixing it becomes quite difficult. So today, let’s learn about a special aspect of teenage skin care. During adolescence, acne or pimples tend to increase a bit more. Let’s find out more about this issue in detail.

Are Pimples and Acne the Same?

It’s essential to know the basics before we dive into the main topic. Many of us think they are the same thing, but there is a slight difference. Pimples usually refer to shallow blemishes or light spots, which indicate whiteheads and blackheads, residing beneath the thin layer of the skin. Generally, there’s no chance of inflammation here.

On the other hand, acne occurs when pimples gather in one place, causing inflammation and increasing sebum production, making it a severe and painful condition. In simple terms, acne is the condition itself, while pimples are symptoms of that condition.

Why Do Pimples Appear During Adolescence?

Under our skin, there’s a gland called the sebaceous gland, which produces sebum, an oily substance released daily. Its job is to moisturize the skin. However, during adolescence or puberty, this sebum production increases. Additionally, dead cells accumulate on the skin regularly. If not cleaned properly, they mix with sebum, clogging the skin’s pores. This accumulation creates bumps on the skin known as pimples.

Even though sebum moisturizes the skin, it also provides nutrients to the skin’s bacteria. When our skin’s white blood cells attack these bacteria, the area becomes red and swollen, leading to further inflammation. Moreover, there’s a white, liquid substance inside, known as pus. This is how acne or pimples appear on the skin during adolescence.

Causes of Acne

Increased hormone secretion in the body can lead to increased sebum production. Teenage girls experience various hormonal changes, such as the onset of periods, while boys also undergo hormonal changes. Due to these changes, it’s quite normal to see acne or pimples on the skin, and it’s a pretty common problem.

Genetics also play a role in acne. However, hormonal secretion is considered the primary cause. Additionally, improper use of various cosmetics, staying up late at night, lack of skin care, weather conditions, stress, and consuming sugary items can exacerbate acne or pimples during adolescence.

Easy Ways to Get Rid of Acne or Pimples During Adolescence

Since the skin is very delicate during this time, you cannot use any product randomly. Simple basic care is enough. You need to be a bit cautious when selecting skin care products during this time. And remember, hormonal acne will gradually subside with time. Let’s see how teenage skin care steps should be:

• Cleanse the face with a mild cleanser twice a day.
• Avoid scrubbing if you have active acne.
• Use an oil-free sunscreen during the day and double cleanse at night.
• Use a daily moisturizer.
• Applying a small amount of tea tree essential oil on acne can help dry them out.
• Use a mask or pack once a week to help reduce acne.
• Salicylic acid-based cleanser and toner are good for acne-prone skin.
• Use a serum if you are under 20 years old.

Dos and Don’ts

1. Don’t pop your acne, never ever!!! It’s challenging to do, but it’s better than risking it. Popping acne can spread bacteria and increase facial inflammation. Besides, new acne may form around the area. So, popping pimples is not advisable.
2. Cleanse your face twice a day, not more. In this case, you can use lukewarm water.                                                                                                                                                                                                                        
3. Don’t touch your face repeatedly. Keep your hair clean as oily hair can contribute to acne. Do not share personal items like towels, beauty tools, or razors.
4. Clean your makeup thoroughly at the end of the day. Avoid heavy makeup during teenage years, especially for those with severe pimple problems. If you do wear makeup, choose products from reputable brands. Avoid harsh chemical-based products.
5. Use clean bedsheets and pillow covers. Dirty pillow covers can lead to acne on the face.
6. During these COVID times, if you have to wear a mask, always use a clean one. Also, those who wear glasses should clean them as the oil tends to accumulate on the nose and forehead, leading to acne. Overall, maintain hygiene at all times.
7. If you experience severe pain or swelling, it’s essential to treat acne immediately. If you face this problem for a long time, consult a skin specialist. In this case, parents should also be careful.

Gossip about Acne!

‘Use toothpaste, and the pimples will disappear’

Many people believe that applying toothpaste to pimples can make them go away. But the fluoride content in toothpaste can worsen the condition of acne-prone skin. It’s very harmful, so this mistake should not be made!

‘Washing the face frequently will keep the skin fresh’

Many believe that washing the face frequently will help. The fact is that it dehydrates the skin even more; twice a day is enough.

‘Applying some sweat or dirt will prevent acne scars’

Sometimes people try to extract pimples by applying sweat or dirt, which is absolutely wrong. Applying sweat or dirt will not prevent acne scars; I have heard this from many parlors. Pimples may come out, but later scars and pits develop there. The skin cells are damaged as a result.

‘It will go away on its own, no need to do anything’

When acne appears, most people think there’s no need to do anything, it will go away on its own! This is a misconception; treatment should definitely be done. Why are pimples increasing? The cause should be identified. The skin should be properly cleaned. Neglecting the skin can lead to various problems later on.

Does acne only occur on the face?

Generally, where there are more oil glands on the body, such as the face, chest, neck, shoulders, and upper arms, acne can be seen. However, there are different types, not all are the same. For example, only clogged pores are whiteheads and blackheads. It doesn’t have much of a damaging effect, but it is more common on the area around the nose. What comes up a little more is papules. And if there are pus-like substances inside, it turns into pustules or cysts. Some people see their faces clear, no pimples. But acne appears on the chest or shoulders. These are mainly due to hormonal issues.

Don’t panic about acne during teenage years!

Acne during puberty is a very normal thing! If you take care properly without panicking, you can easily get relief from this condition. Take some time, be careful about yourself. Adequate sleep and a healthy diet are a must. Avoid staying up late at night, reduce fried food intake. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Follow a basic skincare routine alongside.

That’s all for today. I hope this article will be helpful, especially for teenagers.