Teen Skin
Teen skin is prone to several problems including acne, blackheads, milia, keratosis pilaris, dry skin, warts, molluscum contagiosum, and sunburn. Teens should also be checked for atypical moles and melanoma on a regular basis.
Milia are small, white bumps on the face that arise in skin that has been overtreated with harsh soaps, abrasives, astringents or microdermabrasion. It is a sign of skin injury. Many teens aggressively self treat their blackheads or acne, and in so doing, create milia. Proper treatment of the acne involves prescription retinoids and gentle skin cleansers from a dermatologist which will resolve the milia in time. Keratosis pilaris is similar to acne but involves the hair follicles on the outer arms. Prescription retinoids and gentle cleansing of the skin can resolve this issue as well.
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection which can spread by skin to skin contact and must be treated by a physician with either liquid nitrogen or a chemical applied to the skin to kill the virus.
Sunburn, if mild, is best treated with topical Vitamin C serum, which should also be used each morning to prevent sunburn and premature aging. Use of hat and sun protective clothing should also be taught at an early age.
