Teen Acne
Teen Acne Basics.

The nightmare of any parent as their kids approaches the big “T” Teenage age. I see it now with my son So I decided to write something on this topic to connect with other parents.

If there’s one thing you can count on as a teen, its acne. More than 85% of teenagers have this common skin problem, which is marked by clogged pores (whiteheads, blackheads), painful pimples, and, sometimes, hard, deep lumps on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, back, and upper arms.
Teen Acne can be inherited from the parent that had acne, but there are many ways to prevent (and treat) acne today to keep the condition minimal, prevent scarring, and leave your skin glowing.

Foods to eat and avoid
Research shows that refined foods, dairy products, and sugary foods and beverages may be associated with acne development and worsen their symptoms.
Therefore, it’s best to eat whole, nutritious foods.
Foods and beverages to enjoy
• Vegetables: broccoli, spinach, kale, peppers, zucchini, cauliflower, carrots, beets, etc.
• Fruit: berries, grapefruit, oranges, apples, cherries, bananas, pears, grapes, peaches, etc.
• Whole grains and starchy vegetables: Sweet potato, quinoa, butternut squash, farro, brown rice, oats, buckwheat, etc.
• Healthy fats: whole eggs, olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, nut butter, coconut oil, etc.
• Plant-based dairy alternatives: cashew milk, almond milk, coconut milk, coconut yogurt, etc.
• High-quality protein: salmon, tofu, chicken, turkey, eggs, shellfish, etc.
• Legumes: chickpeas, black beans, lentils, kidney beans, etc.
• Anti-inflammatory herbs and spices: turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, parsley, garlic, ginger, cayenne, etc.
• Unsweetened beverages: water, sparkling water, green tea, hibiscus tea, lemon water, etc.
Foods and beverages to avoid
Dairy products, refined foods, and high-sugar foods and beverages should be avoided:
• Milk and dairy products: milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.
• Highly processed foods: fast food, frozen meals, meal bars, sugary cereals, chips, microwave meals, white bread, etc.
• Sweets and sugary beverages: candy, cake, soda, cookies, table sugar, energy drinks, sweetened sports drinks, juice, etc.
General Tips for Treating Teen Acne
A variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications are available.
A doctor can advise on an appropriate course of treatment, which will depend on the severity of symptoms. For severe acne, the doctor may refer an individual to a dermatologist.
General tips for managing acne include:
• washing the skin and face twice a day and after sweating or playing sports
• washing the hair, especially oily hair, with shampoo regularly
• using gentle, oil-free skincare products and cosmetics
• avoiding picking, scratching, or touching pimples
• avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun
Acne can also affect a person’s self-esteem and lead to depression, especially in teenagers and young adults. The AAD recommends taking the acne seriously and emphasize the importance of managing stress and watching for signs of depression.
Get Quality Sleep
When you wake up in the morning, how do you feel? If the answer is anything other than rested, it’s time to take a look at what the problem is. Do you go to bed too late and get up too early? Or is the problem that your sleep isn’t restful?
If you don’t get good, restorative sleep, your body might not feel rested and could kick-start that cortical surge, which could put you at risk for more acne.
The fix is simple, but not always easy: Make sleep a priority to give your body the rest it needs and your acne a chance to heal. And of course, you should always take all your makeup off before you go to bed.
When Should I Call My Doctor About Acne?
Whether you have a few pimples or more serious acne, talk to your primary health care provider about treatments. Treating acne early is the key to avoiding permanent scarring.

SUMMARY
Teen Acne is a skin disease that is caused by many factors, including hormonal changes, bacteria, inflammation, hyperkeratinization, and diet.
The best diet for acne revolves around whole, nutritious foods that fight inflammation. Avoid highly processed foods, sugary items, and dairy produce.

Love,
As Always Happy Reading
Judith Ngozi