Problems That Teens Can Develop from Acne

Puberty often involves the onset of acne, although people of any age can experience issues with skin eruptions. Almost 85 percent of all people experience acne at some age, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. A teenager with acne may also have additional problems that result from the skin condition.

  1. Pain and Discomfort

    • Acne involves a variety of different lesions. The less-serious ones include whiteheads and blackheads. Papules are tiny, pink and usually tender, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Pustules generally appear red and contain pus. The most serious lesions are nodules and cysts. These types of lesions are generally large, deep and very painful for an afflicted teenager. The more acne lesions a teenager has on her face, the more pain and discomfort she's experiencing from the inflammation and the skin eruptions.

    Physical Scarring

    • Acne with nodules and cysts is likely to result in physical scarring. With papules and pustules, the eruption occurs at the skin's surface, which creates a pink or red bump without the accompanying skin damage and scarring. Scarring could occur with papules and pustules if your teen picks or squeezes the acne, due to associated skin damage. Nodules and cysts erupt deep under the skin. Sometimes a group of nodules or cysts combine to create a large and deep crater, which can cause significant damage to the surrounding skin, according to NHS Choices, a UK government health information website.

    Emotional and Social Struggles

    • Both active acne lesions and residual scarring can cause emotional and social struggles for a teenager, warns the Northern Ireland Health and Social Care Board. Teens often have marked sensitivity regarding appearance, so acne and scarring can cause anxiety issues. Teens may also experience reduced self-esteem, social inhibition and depression.

    Medication Side Effects

    • Some common acne medications can cause side effects. Tretinoin is available in both over-the-counter and prescription strength. Side effects include red, dry and peeling skin, according to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. Antibiotics are available by prescription for acne treatment, but sun sensitivity is a common side effect. Isotretinoin is another prescription acne medication, prescribed for people with severe active acne lesions or acne scarring. Isotretinoin can result in birth defects, mood swings and changes to the blood and liver, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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