Acne & Scarring / Question
Published: May 7, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am 12. I get blackheads on my face. I wash with soap and water at night and I also use an astringent. What can I do to get rid of them?
Signed: 12, Blackheads On Face
Dear 12, Blackheads On Face,
Acne is a problem that many teenagers have to deal with. Blackheads are quite common and are caused by keratin plugs within the pores that are open to the air. They are black because the material is oxidized. It is not dirt.
Here are guidelines that may help:
1. Wash your face gently at least two times daily using a mild soap. Do not scrub your face because it could make the acne worse
2. Do not pick, pop or squeeze your pimples because you could spread the swelling and cause scarring.
3. Stay away from things that can make acne worse such as oily facial care products,makeup, irritating clothing and hats that cover your forehead. Excessive stress and sweating can cause acne, too.
4. Buy and use oil free make-up and soaps.
5. Speak to your parents or your doctor about buying an over-the-counter cream or lotion containing benzoyl peroxide and use it as directed on the package. Give the medication time to work, usually the information on the package will tell you when you can expect results. Misuse of over-the-counter acne medications could make your acne worse.
6. Use non-greasy sunscreen on your skin and face and avoid tanning booths. Excessive facial sun is not good for acne. Also, many acne products (over-the-counter or prescribed acne medication) increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun.
Make sure the facial products you use are labeled "noncomedogenic" (non-acne-causing). Do not use cosmetics or hair/skin products that contain petroleum jelly because this can clog your pores and make acne worse.
Sometimes acne can require treatment by a doctor. You should probably consult with a physician if any of the following apply to you:
- Nonprescription acne products have not worked.
- You have acne scars as well as pimples.
- You have large painful acne bumps.
- You have dark patches where pimples used to be.
- You are not sure if the problem is acne.
- You would feel better if a doctor evaluated you.
If you would like to meet with a doctor from the Adolescent/Young Adult Center For Health in Morristown, New Jersey, you can call 973.971.6475 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
A national study of women ages 15-44 found that women were almost twice as likely to receive contraceptive services rather than STD services.
