Child Acne
Acne in Childhood and Adolescence

child and adolescent acne

Acne can be described as numerous pimples, which appear and disappear, that have the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads or red lumps. Acne usually begins about the time a child enters puberty. Before that time, there might be a few occasional outbreaks of pimples, but it is late childhood/early teenage years that acne might persist. 

Acne pimples are the result of clogged hair follicles which become inflammed. The inflammation is usually caused by more oil (sebum) being produced than can exit the follicles. This sets up a situation where (1) the oil blocks the follicle which is known as a whitehead, or (2) the plug extends to the surface of the skin and is exposed to air which causes it to darken or turn black and is called a blackhead.

prevalence of child acne

Acne is so common in adolescence that most children in this age group have it to some degree.  Its course usually runs from puberty to the end of the teen years. Acne in its true form is not seen in young children because they do not have the hormones necessary for the acne to develop.

Child acne is more common in boys than girls. When girls have acne, it tends to worsen around the time of their menstrual periods.  In both boys and girls, acne is related to surges in hormone production. These particular androgen hormones occur normally in both boys and girls but to different extents. They are responsible for the sebaceous glands producing extra oil.

prevention and treatment of child acne

Because of the hormonal activities causing increased productions of sebum, it probably is not possible to prevent acne pimples from forming. However,  most child acne responds well to over-the-counter products containing benzol peroxide. Benzol peroxide  is available in a number of different lotions and cremes from several manufacturers.

Read all the labels carefully and compare brands as to ingredients and price.  Practice the usual precautions when using topical medications - test on a small area first and be watchful for any reactions.

A healthy diet -- which restricts sugars and fats -- exercise, gentle, daily skin care routines using a mild facial cleanser should be part of the treatment plan to shorten the acne outbreaks and curtail their severity.

Lastly, acne is never pleasant for anyone, and certainly not for a child/adolescent. It is a time for parents to be especially helpful and understanding as your child goes through this (and certainly other) stages in life.

For additional information about the types of acne, see:

Stress Acne - Can Life's Stress Cause Acne
Teen Acne - Teenager Experiencing Physical | Psychological Changes
Adult Acne - Causes and Treatment
Acne Rosacea - What It Is and How To Treat It
Types of Acne - Know Which Form You Have
Helpful Source for Acne Information