More than 80% of 13- to 18-year-olds experience acne during their teenage years.
Dr Zainab Laftah, a consultant dermatologist, explains that most of the so-called problems you encounter during puberty are related to testosterone, which drives rises in oil production and acne.
Boys can experience more of these problems, but girls have testosterone as well so get many of the same symptoms.
“This, together with blocked hair follicles and inflammation, leads to blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed spots,” Dr Laftah says. “Acne is very, very common and it’s normal and treatable.”
Salicylic acid, a common active ingredient that penetrates into oil-filled pores to help clear the buildup of sebum and dead skin cells “can be particularly helpful for teenagers with oily or acne-prone skin” says Dr Laftah, warning that unnecessary or excessive use may cause dryness and irritation.
If you’re suffering from severe acne or a severe skin problem, Dr Kentley advises getting help from your GP or a dermatologist rather than engaging with people on social media on how to manage it.
