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Home › Articles › Preteenagers › The Onset of Acne

The Onset of Acne

Parents Can Be Valuable Allies for Kids Coping With Acne

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After evaluating the patient, the physician may prescribe one or more medications. "The typical prescription for comedonal acne is a topical retinoid, which is designed to 'unroof ' the comedones," Dr. Metry says. "If the skin is also inflamed, products which combine benzoyl peroxide and antibiotics may be prescribed." More advanced cases also may require oral medication.

"Typically, these medicines are in a tetracycline class and take several weeks to show improvements," Dr. Metry says. "Hormonal therapy in the form of an oral contraceptive is often prescribed for girls. Accutane, which contains isotretinoin, is the strongest acne medicine and is reserved for only the most serious of cases."

While sun is commonly thought to have a drying effect, Dr. Metry advises against increased sun exposure due to the added risk of skin cancer and premature aging. If a child must be in the sun, a strong sunscreen is recommended.

Finally, Dr. Metry believes there is no alternative for a healthy lifestyle. "Myths aside, sleep, exercise and eating a reasonably healthy diet will make you look better because you feel better," she says.

Acne Facts

  • Chocolate, greasy foods and cola drinks do not cause acne. Acne actually results from a combination of genetics, increased hormone production and bacteria.
  • A youngster is at risk for acne with the appearance of the first plugged pore or comedone, a medical term for a blackhead or whitehead. A comedone can occur as early as 7 or 8 years of age in girls and 11 to 12 years of age in boys.
  • As skin grows underneath plugged pores and bacteria sets in, lesions become red and result in the bumps commonly known as pimples.

Treatment Facts

  • If one of the parents has a history of severe acne, the child is especially prone to a harsh case and should visit a doctor before scarring occurs.
  • Mild cases may respond to over-the-counter treatments. Topical products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help dry the skin. Washing with mild soap twice a day is recommended.
  • The typical prescription for comedonal acne is a topical retinoid. If the skin also is inflamed, products that combine benzoyl peroxide and antibiotics may be prescribed.
  • More advanced cases may require oral medication, typically in a tetracycline class. Hormonal therapy in the form of an oral contraceptive is often prescribed for girls. Accutane, which contains isotretinoin, is reserved for the most severe cases.

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