What to know about acne in teenagers

Acne develops when oil, dead skin cells, and inflammation block hair follicles. It may appear as blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps, pus-filled spots, or deeper tender lumps on the face, chest, shoulders, or back. Hormonal shifts can increase oil production, while sweat, friction, oily hair products, and picking may aggravate breakouts. Acne is not caused by being dirty, and harsh scrubbing can worsen irritation.

A spot can leave a temporary red or brown mark after it heals. Deeper or repeatedly picked lesions are more likely to scar. The emotional effect matters too: embarrassment, low mood, or avoiding school and activities are valid reasons to seek support.

Cleanse gently twice daily and after heavy sweating, then use a non-comedogenic moisturiser and sunscreen. Avoid squeezing lesions, abrasive scrubs, and changing several active products at once. A pharmacist or dermatologist can recommend treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, a topical retinoid, or other options suited to the skin and pregnancy status where relevant. Use treatment consistently and allow time for the skin to respond. Wash pillowcases and sports headgear regularly, and keep hair products away from the face.

Book a dermatology review for painful deep lumps, scarring, widespread acne, or breakouts that persist despite a steady routine. Seek help sooner if acne is causing distress, bullying, sleep problems, or withdrawal from normal activities. Rapidly worsening redness, severe swelling, fever, or an unusual blistering rash needs prompt assessment because it may not be ordinary acne.

Ask which acne type you have, when to expect irritation from treatment, and how to protect against dark marks. Discuss sports, shaving, cosmetics, menstrual-pattern flares, mood effects, and what to do if a product burns or causes swelling.