For most of us, acne can be a confidence-diminishing skin condition that pops up out of nowhere. For teenagers, it can take a heavier toll as it surfaces around a time when looks are given unnecessary importance and attention in their lives.
If your teenager seems upset and frustrated by acne, here’s how you can help:
Take acne seriously
While waiting for acne scars to heal on their own without targeted treatment, your teenager’s confidence too could plummet.
Telling them that whiteheads, cysts, blackheads, or pimples can go away on their own will do more harm than good.
When severe acne clears, it tends to leave permanent scars. Now is the right time to seek treatment and gradually incorporate changes that could lead to healthier, clearer skin texture.
Cautiously remind your teen to use acne treatment
Some studies by dermatologists have found that when parents remind their teens to use acne treatment every single day, it can backfire or lead to feelings of resentment in children.
Many teens approach this strategy as a “nagging” form of behavior from parents. This caused teens to feel demotivated towards bettering their skin health or using acne treatment.
Fewer reminders from parents may help in being more effective.
Let them meet the dermatologist alone
Most teenagers get acne. If you have booked an appointment with a dermatologist for your teen’s acne condition, it is wise to let them sit with the dermatologist alone to encourage more confidence and initiation.
It is harder for a child that age to be vocal and true about their concerns with a parent in the same room. If acne upsets them, having someone of an objective stance who can help them see clearer skin is of great help.
Watch for signs of depression
Having acne scars can affect how one feels about their image, appearance, and self-esteem. Studies show that acne condition leads to feelings of anxiety and depression.
It is crucial for parents to recognize the signs which may include:
- Sadness lasting for two entire weeks or longer
- Withdrawing from social activities, even with people of their age
- Loss of interest in hobbies or activities your teen once enjoyed
Thanks to advancements in acne treatment, virtually every case of acne, no matter how severe, can be succesfully treated with professional intervention and lifestyle modifications.
It is imperative for loved ones to show solidarity and support during teen acne.
Try to reduce stress
It is all too common knowledge that stress has a direct impact on skin health, causing sudden acne breakouts or flare-ups.
And teenage can be a heavily stressful time with the onset of puberty, hormonal changes, and the emotionally charged coming-of-age process.
As a parent, look for factors that help relieve stress in your teen’s daily life. It could be spending time together, engaging in hobbies, and having wholesome conversations that leave them feeling lighter and happier.
Conclusion
While acne persists to be a tough skin battle, it can be possible to let your skin heal with patience, understanding, and commitment to acne treatment.
Most teens just want to be seen, feel loved, and understood beyond anything else. It’s important we communicate how acne does not define them in any way and is a skin problem that can be combatted with the right help and approach.
