Acne

Acne is no fun. It can make you feel shy in front of your friends, which may also keep you from joining in on fun activities after school. Did you realize, though, that almost everyone suffers from acne at some time? Whether it's pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads, acne affects a lot of kids (and adults, too). But there's no need to worry: Acne is treatable! There are several things both you and your dermatologist can do to control outbreaks.

What is acne?
Our bodies produce hormones (called androgens) that make our skin oily. That oil can lead to acne in some people. Acne may also run in families, although dermatologists aren't sure exactly what the connection is yet.

Treating acne at home.
Most people can control pimples by taking good care of their skin at home. (Sometimes over-the-counter [OTC] creams and lotions help, too.) To help keep your skin clear and smooth, try these tips:

Avoid scrubbing. Dirt doesn't cause acne. Scrubbing will only inflame and irritate your tender skin.

Use a mild soap. Wash your skin gently with a soap or cleanser that's specially made for people with acne. Ask a pharmacist for help in choosing one that's right for you.

Smooth on benzoyl peroxide lotion. Benzoyl peroxide helps dry up your skin and reduce bacteria. (You'll find these lotions at pharmacies.)

Help from a dermatologist.
How do you know when it's time to get help from a dermatologist? If you've tried the tips listed above for a couple of months, and they haven't worked for you, it's a good idea to see a dermatologist, who can treat acne with many different medications.