13/08/2025
Q&A⁉️ Acne in teenagers ⁉️ what to do ⁉️ what to avoid ⁉️
Acne is a common skin condition caused by a mix of factors—mainly hormones, oil (sebum), bacteria, and clogged pores. Let’s break it all down clearly:
🔥 What Causes Acne?
1. Hormonal Changes – especially during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or from conditions like PCOS.
2. Excess Sebum (oil) Production – clogs pores.
3. Dead Skin Cells – build up and block pores.
4. Bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) – infects clogged pores and causes inflammation.
5. Stress – can worsen acne.
6. Cosmetics/Skincare Products – if comedogenic (pore-clogging).
7. Diet – some foods may trigger or worsen acne.
🍽️ What to Eat for Clearer Skin
These may help reduce inflammation and balance hormones:
• Omega-3 rich foods: Salmon, flaxseed, chia seeds
• Low-glycemic foods: Oats, quinoa, vegetables, legumes
• Zinc-rich foods: Pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, cashews
• Antioxidant foods: Berries, leafy greens, green tea
• Probiotics: Yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut (gut-skin connection!)
🚫 What to Avoid (or Limit)
• High-glycemic carbs: White bread, sugary snacks, soda (spikes insulin → more oil)
• Dairy (especially skim milk): Linked to breakouts in some people
• Greasy & processed foods
• Whey protein supplements
• Over-washing or using harsh skincare
🧴 Top Acne-Fighting Ingredients (in skincare)
Look for these on product labels:
1. Salicylic Acid – unclogs pores, exfoliates
2. Benzoyl Peroxide – kills acne bacteria
3. Niacinamide – reduces inflammation, redness
4. Retinoids (Retinol/Adapalene) – prevents clogged pores, smooths texture
5. Azelaic Acid – antibacterial, brightens skin
6. Sulfur – dries out whiteheads/blackheads
7. Clay (Kaolin/Bentonite) – absorbs excess oil
8. Tea Tree Oil – natural antibacterial
✅ Bonus Tips
• Use non-comedogenic products (won’t clog pores)
• Don’t touch your face
• Change pillowcases regularly
• Avoid over-washing – 2x a day max
✨ Acne-Friendly Skincare Routine (AM + PM)
🌞 Morning Routine:
1. Gentle Cleanser – e.g. CeraVe Foaming Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel
2. Niacinamide Serum (Optional but great for redness & oil) – e.g. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc
3. Moisturizer – CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion or Neutrogena Hydro Boost
4. SPF 30+ Sunscreen (daily, even when indoors) – EltaMD UV Clear or La Roche-Posay Anthelios or any SPF 30 and 🆙
🌙 Night Routine:
1. Cleanser – Same as morning
2. Treatment (choose 1 or alternate every other night):
• Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5–5% (PanOxyl, spot treatment or full-face for acne-prone areas)
• Adapalene (Differin) – Retinoid to prevent clogged pores and reduce breakouts
• Azelaic Acid 10–20% – Gentle and helps with redness + post-acne marks
3. Moisturizer – Same as morning (apply after treatment to reduce dryness)