During adolescence, taking care of one’s skin involves more than just cleansing and moisturizing. It also means adequate protection and early treatment if necessary.
Sun protection Teens tend to spend more time outdoors, exposing their skin to intense UV radiation which can cause skin damage and accelerate aging. Although young people have a fast metabolism, the accumulation of melanin and cellular aging will gradually become apparent. Hence, it is crucial to use broad-spectrum sunscreen with PA++ and SPF30 or higher every day after cleansing, which blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
When engaging in activities under direct sunlight, it is best to wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and broad-brimmed hats and avoid direct sun exposure during midday. Every time the skin gets sunburnt, it increases the chances of developing skin cancer and premature aging.
Treatment Is it necessary to seek medical treatment during adolescence? When acne problems become severe, medical treatment becomes necessary. Poorly managed acne problems can lead to scarring, indentations, and other issues that may require more mental, time, and financial resources to deal with in the future.
During adolescence, the male hormone secretion increases, leading to more active sebaceous glands. When excess oil is produced by the sebaceous glands and pores are clogged with dust, bacteria, and dead skin cells, pimples and acne can form. Improper use of skincare products, moisturizers, and cosmetics can also exacerbate the problem.
Many people have the misconception that acne is caused by poor hygiene and, therefore, wash their face several times a day. However, multiple use of facial cleansers only helps to remove excess oil but does not reduce oil secretion. Over-cleansing the skin can cause irritation and lead to acne problems.
Mild acne problems can be treated with skincare products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These products can be applied to the face twice a day, particularly on areas where there is more oil secretion such as the forehead, chin, nose, and cheeks, to reduce the formation of pimples and acne. However, excessive use of these products can cause the skin to become overly dry and sensitive. It is best to use them according to a doctor’s recommendation.
Teens generally lack awareness of skin care, so parents should educate their children early on. By starting to take care of their skin during adolescence, they can avoid the need for multiple skin treatments later in life.