Acne is a common skin condition which tends to affect teens, but it can also have an effect on adults. The condition is characterized by red, sore spots found mostly on the face, but they can also be found on the back, chest and neck.
How does acne affect teens?
We all know that the teenage years can be difficult as it is, but add acne to this and it can be a very distressing time for teens. They may feel self-conscious about the way they look, they may hate looking in the mirror and they might also be worried about other people think of them. We live in a society increasingly focused on beauty and image where young people are more image conscious than ever before. Acne may also make teens more vulnerable to bullying and they may struggle to fit in, especially if they lack confidence and tend to shy away from social situations.
Acne is a short-term problem for most people and occurs as a result of puberty, but for teenagers it can seem like a massive problem that is never going to get better. But researching acne and seeing a doctor can help teens to learn more about the condition and the different treatment options available.
How does acne affect parents?
Acne can be a nightmare for teens, but it can also be troubling for parents. Teens can be really deeply affected by acne and you may worry about your child’s well being and their decreasing levels of confidence. Bullying is a worry for all parents; nobody wants to think that their child is being picked on. If you are worried about your child suffering mental or physical abuse at school, you should talk to their teacher as possible. Signs of bullying include a child not wanting to go to school, a child being reticent with information about their time at school and a child becoming withdrawn and spending time on their own.
Take time to talk to your child and listen to what they have to say. They may feel better if they are able to share their worries and feelings with you so that you can both tackle the problem together.
How can parents help?
If your child is suffering from a lack of confidence try to boost their self-esteem by reassuring them. Always tell them that you love them and they are beautiful and ensure that they understand acne is not a lifelong curse and that it can be treated.
You can help your child by taking them to see their doctor. Nowadays, there are many different treatments for acne and many of them are extremely effective. You can also help by buying them specialist skin products designed to care for acne-prone skin. There are loads of products out there and your doctor will be able to recommend suitable cleansers and moisturizing creams to you.
If you suffered from acne yourself you can share your own experiences and reassure your child that you got over it and that they will too.
The most important thing you can do as a parent is be there for your child. Make sure that they know that they can come to you for advice or support when they need.
Richard is from the dermatologist group where you can learn more about acne and other skin conditions that can make parenting
