It’s perfectly natural to be sensitive about the way our skin looks. These concerns are only intensified during our teenage years. These years can be emotionally and physically challenging, especially for the skin. However, there is some good news. There are numerous excellent treatments that can tame some of the most common skin issues that teenagers experience. So, please keep reading as our board-certified dermatology experts explain.

Acne

Acne is by far the most common skin condition seen in teenagers. Thankfully it is also highly treatable. During puberty, oil-producing glands are hormonally stimulated to produce more sebum (oil). This excess oil production can lead to a cascade that plugs the follicles (pores). These plugged follicles are the precursors to pimples called open and closed comedones (black heads). As these comedones persist they can get inflamed which usually leads to a red pimple or pustule, and in more severe cases, cystic lesions that can potentially cause more permanent acne scarring. Acne most commonly occurs on the face, neck, back, and shoulders.

There are many topical and oral (pill) medications used to treat acne. These are used with great success. However, there are many additional treatments available at DAA that can greatly improve the likelihood of a successful outcome! The MDs, PAs and Dermatology Estheticians often treat deep and painful cysts with localized, low dose steroid injections. This usually helps to resolve cysts within 24-48 hours. It may also help decrease the likelihood of scarring and can be done quickly in our office.

Laser treatments do require more specific scheduling, but are often extremely helpful. These include treatment with V-Beam, Miria, Smooth Beam, or Derma-V. Radio-frequency microneedling with Sylfirm X and photodynamic therapy with the Red Light are two more available treatment options. The Miria™ Fraxel Laser System is a great option for acne scarring, while the Alex or Pico lasers are great for residual hyperpigmentation from acne. Our providers have extensive experience using all of these modalities to help address acne and subsequent scarring.

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, often referred to as eczema, is commonly associated with children, but can develop and flourish in the teenage years as well. It is thought to be the combination of a genetic predisposition along with an environmental trigger. The trigger may be an allergen, a virus, a bacterial infection, etc. As of yet, we cannot determine which triggers bring on atopic dermatitis for which people. We do know that stress, temperature fluctuation (NO really hot showers or baths!), highly scented soaps, bath salts, and creams can trigger flares. Once the healthy skin barrier is breached, even plain water may make an eczema patient irritated and itchy.

Mild atopic dermatitis can be treated using provider-recommended over-the-counter (usually unscented) skin barrier repair creams, and body washes/soaps. There are newer prescription topical medications that have been very successful in treating moderate atopic dermatitis patients. When symptoms are severe or extensive, we now have prescription oral and injectable medications that can have incredible results for patients with atopic dermatitis.

Excessive Sweating

Everyone sweats, but some people are more prone to heavy sweating than others. This condition is known as hyperhidrosis. Many teens experience this burdensome and often embarrassing condition. While it commonly causes excessive perspiration at the underarm area, excess sweating can also commonly occur at the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, the scalp, the face, the genital area, the buttocks, and any other area that has sweat glands.

There are topical and oral medications that your provider may prescribe to improve your battle against excessive sweating. However, if you are still experiencing excessive sweating under your arms, there is the miraDry® system. Our experts have had tremendous success using miraDry® to treat excessive sweating for the underarm area. This outstanding non-surgical treatment is FDA-approved and proven safe. It works by precisely delivering controlled electromagnetic energy to the area under the arm where the sweat glands reside. Once these sweat glands have been targeted and treated, hyperhidrosis and chronic sweating will be markedly improved and even alleviated in many, without affecting the body’s natural cooling ability.

Stay tuned for part two of this blog where we delve into common skin concerns for seniors. Regardless of your age, our board-certified dermatologists and physician assistants have the knowledge, experience, and ability to diagnose and treat any issue facing your skin, hair, or nails. For more information contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta to schedule an appointment today. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more skin care tips and practice updates.