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3 Common Teenage Skin Problems

As you transition from childhood to adulthood, everyone tells you how your body is going to change. As a teen, you are no stranger to unwanted and uncomfortable body phenomena; skin problems are among the most common. If you’re suffering from any of the following skin conditions, you are not alone. Adolescent dermatology professionals can help.

Acne

Probably one of the most familiar and common of all teenage woes, acne is a skin condition that occurs when pores are clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Those little red, white, and black spots are most likely to form on areas of the body with a greater number of oil glands, like the forehead, cheeks, and chin. The chest and back are also known to be problem areas for kids going through puberty. Acne causes some teens to experience embarrassment and a poor body image, but the reality is that 85% of people develop acne at some point in their lives. If you are struggling with acne, know that you are not alone and adolescent dermatology professionals offer a number of acne treatment options. These treatments include oral medications like antibiotics and hormonal contraceptives (for girls), topical medications like retinoids, and various therapies like chemical peels and light therapy.

Eczema

Also known as dermatitis, eczema is inflammation of the skin that causes dry, itchy redness. Eczema is most common in children and can occur anywhere on the body. Though experts do not know exactly what causes the condition, it is thought to be a combination of factors like genetics, environment, malfunction of the immune system, and a defective skin barrier. It is important for teens with eczema to treat their skin with gentle moisturizing products and to avoid products that can irritate the skin, like scented lotions. A doctor may prescribe topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), or systemic oral drugs to treat the condition and relieve symptoms.

Warts

Warts are another common condition plaguing teens, causing embarrassment and low self-esteem. There are several types of warts that occur on different parts of the body. Common warts are usually found on the fingers and toes; they are greyish and rounded on top. Plantar warts develop on the soles of the feet, but rather than pop out, they grow into the skin and appear to be small holes. Flat warts show up on the face, arms, or thighs and have a flat, “scraped” look. Periungual warts occur under the fingernails and toenails. Finally, filiform warts look like a flap of skin and pop up around the mouth, nose, neck, or chin. Fortunately, warts can be removed by curetting, burning, freezing, or excision.

As you age, most of your common skin problems will likely clear up. According to adolescent dermatology professionals, many of them are hormonal. And as a teen, you know — because you’ve been told countless times by your parents, teachers, doctors, and the media — that your hormones are changing and fluctuating. And you’ll get through it.