Common Skin Problems in Teenagers

Offering support or lending a helping hand to a teenager with skin problems such as acne can be a true challenge. It would be wonderful to offer teens a simple cure for acne. No doubt teenagers are already experiencing the inevitable ups and downs of adolescence and acne only adds to the angst, unfortunately, there is just no cure for acne. Due to this fact, the focus for common skin problems in teens shifts from a cure to prevention, and the most effective form of treatment.

Common Skin Problems in Teens

Skin problems in teenagers are prominent. Many parents probably view such problems as a rite of passage, but it is good to become educated about common skin problems that exist in teenage skin, and a few common problems that might require a more refined treatment prescribed by a dermatologist.

The most common skin problem in teens is acne, medically classified as acne vulgaris. There are more myths and misconceptions about acne and the development of acne than there are acne types. Most people are under the impression that the different types of acne, whiteheads, blackheads and cystic or nodular acne are formed in different ways and are the result of different contributing factors. In truth, all of these pimples and zits—these forms of acne—develop in the same way.

Blackheads – Common Skin Problems in Teens

One skin problem that most teenagers experience is the development of blackheads. The myth most commonly associated with blackheads is that they develop based on poor personal hygiene. Such a myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Blackheads develop as dead skin cells shed from the epidermis and clog a follicle. The skin cells combine with the P-Acne skin bacteria found on the surface of the skin and sebum (a skin oil) from the sebaceous gland.

The “black head” develops due to a larger opening of the skin at the surface. Because air can reach the internal development of the pimple, the acne material oxidizes, and thus it takes on a darker color. In the medical world, blackheads may be referred to as an open comedone.

Whiteheads – Common Skin Problems in Teens

Whiteheads are another acne skin problem in the mild to moderate category. The whitehead forms exactly how a blackhead forms. The only difference between the two is based on the pore opening at the skin’s surface. A whitehead is closed at the surface, except for a microscopic opening, protecting the acne factors from the outside air—the material stays white, and presses through at the surface. These are also referred to as a closed comedones.

Cystic and Nodular (Nodulocystic) Acne – Common Skin Problems in Teens

Quite common, but a more severe and serious skin problem, cystic acne, often referred to as nodular or nodulocystic acne, develops in the same manner as all acne. The difference with cystic is the level at which it develops. Whiteheads and blackheads develop toward the outer layer of the skin, while cystic acne develops deeper, becomes harder to treat, heal and generally lasts longer while sometimes causing physical pain. Due to its nature, and the fact that it can’t be “spot” treated, or effectively treated from the outside, it is recommended that a chronic sufferer consult with a dermatologist for the best course of treatment.