Acne
(say:
ak
-nee) - also known as pimples or zits - is a totally normal part of
growing up. Kids get acne because of changes that occur during
puberty
, the time when kids' bodies begin the many changes that turn
them into adults.
When you got your first pimple, you probably took off running to
ask your parent, older brother or sister, or friend what you should
do. But before you take their advice and pop that pimple, you
should know that there's a lot of information about acne out
there that's just plain wrong. Let's clear up some common
myths about acne - and maybe even your skin in the process!
Myth: Popping your pimples is the best way to get rid of
them.
Fact:
Step away from that mirror! Some people might tell you that popping
your zits will make them less noticeable and help them heal faster,
but they're wrong. Picking or popping your pimples pushes germs
further under your skin, which could cause more redness, pain, and
maybe even a nasty
infection
. And popping zits can lead to
scarring
, which could last forever.
If pimples always seem to show up at the wrong time, like before
a big event such as a dance, talk to your parent about paying a
visit to your doctor or a doctor who specializes in treating acne
called a
dermatologist
(say: der-muh-
tah
-luh-jist). A doctor can help get your acne under control.
Myth: Eating fried foods or chocolate can cause acne.
Fact:
Nope - that candy bar you had last night or that slice of pizza at
last week's sleepover isn't responsible for the pimple that
showed up on your face today. What you eat isn't the cause of
acne, but that doesn't mean you should pig out on food that
isn't very nutritious. Eating a variety of foods, such as
fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, will
make you feel good and keep the rest of your body healthy and
strong.
Myth: Stress causes acne.
Fact:
Are you worried that the big test tomorrow or that next week's
championship game will cause your skin to break out? Don't
worry - the normal everyday
stress
of being a kid doesn't cause acne. If you're going through
an especially stressful period in your life - such as moving to a
new house or dealing with your parents'
divorce
- your skin may produce more oil, also known as sebum (say:
see
-bum), but that doesn't mean you'll get more zits.
Myth: Getting a tan clears up acne.
Fact:
Baking in the
sun
does nothing to improve your acne. When you spend time
outside and your skin becomes darker, the redness caused by acne
may be less noticeable for a little while. But when your tan fades,
you'll still see your zits. And spending time in the sun
without the proper protection can cause dry, irritated, or burned
skin - not to mention it increases your risk of developing wrinkles
and skin cancer later in life.
Before you head outdoors, protect your skin with a sunscreen
that contains a sun protection factor (on the label it'll say
SPF) of at least 15. Use a brand that's marked
"noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic," which means
it won't clog your pores and worsen acne. Don't forget to
wear a hat and sunglasses when you're outside to keep your skin
in top shape. And if you ever wondered about tanning beds, here are
the facts - they're boring, expensive, and dangerous because
they increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
Myth: You can get rid of acne by washing your face more.
Fact:
Washing your face regularly is a good idea because it helps remove
dead skin cells, excess oil, and dirt from your skin's surface.
But overwashing or scrubbing your skin too hard can dry out and
irritate your skin, which only makes acne worse.
What's the best skin care strategy? As a general rule,
gently wash your face no more than twice a day with a mild soap or
cleanser. After you've finished washing, gently pat your skin
dry with a soft towel. Steer clear of exfoliants or scrubs, which
can irritate your pimples. Also avoid products that contain alcohol
because they can dry out and irritate your skin.
Myth: If you want to avoid acne, don't wear makeup.
Fact:
Young skin looks great without makeup. But if you like cosmetics,
be sure to choose products that are labeled
"noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic." That means
the product won't clog your pores or cause breakouts. Some
cosmetics even contain acne-fighting ingredients such as benzoyl
peroxide and salicylic acid. If you are not sure, ask your parent
or doctor.
Myth: If you keep breaking out, using more medicine will get
your zits under control.
Fact:
Do you know the saying "less is more"? It definitely
applies to acne medication. Using too much medicine to zap zits can
lead to dry, irritated skin. Whether you bought an acne product at
your local drugstore or you are using something prescribed by a
doctor, be sure to follow the directions carefully.
If over-the-counter medicine isn't helping your acne
problem, talk to your parent. You may need to see your doctor or a
dermatologist, who may prescribe other medications to help clear up
your skin.
It can take as long as 8 weeks before you notice an improvement.
If you don't, talk to your doctor who will make the right
adjustments for you. Don't use extra medication on your own,
though - using more medicine than prescribed can cause unpleasant
and even dangerous side effects.
Almost all kids and teens have to deal with acne at some point -
but the good news is that with the right facts and the proper acne
treatment, you can help your skin and put your best face
forward!
Reviewed by:
Patrice Hyde, MD
Date reviewed: September 2007
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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