Pimples are a common skin condition that affects teenagers going through puberty. Hormonal changes during puberty lead to excess production of oil or sebum in the skin.
This, combined with dead skin cells and bacteria, clogs the pores and leads to pimple formation. Pimples usually occur on the face, back, chest and shoulders.
Causes of Teenage Pimples With Explanation
They can cause pain, swelling, redness and embarrassment. While over-the-counter creams and washes are easily available, they contain chemicals that can irritate the skin. Using natural remedies is a safer and inexpensive way to treat teenage pimples effectively at home.
This article explores the causes of teenage pimples and suggests natural ways to get rid of them and prevent recurrence.
- Hormonal Changes:- During puberty, rising levels of androgens like testosterone cause the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. Excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria, blocking the hair follicles. This leads to whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples.
- Genetics:- Teenagers with a family history of acne are more likely to develop pimples. Genetics can determine how sensitive your skin is to hormonal fluctuations.
- Stress:- Increased stress during the teenage years due to academic, social, or emotional pressures stimulates the production of cortisol and inflammatory chemicals. This triggers pimples.
- Unhealthy Diet:- A diet high in refined carbohydrates, sugar, and unhealthy fats triggers inflammation and increases sebum production. Greasy fast food and sweetened beverages especially contribute to acne.
- Medications:- Certain medications like steroids, testosterone, lithium, anticonvulsants, etc. can worsen acne.
Natural Remedies for Teenage Pimples
- Tea Tree Oil: The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil help get rid of pimples. Dip a cotton swab and apply diluted tea tree oil on pimples at night. It reduces redness and swelling.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera gel has a soothing and healing effect on inflamed skin. Apply fresh gel from the aloe leaf directly on pimples daily. It clears up pimples and reduces scarring.
- Green Tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants that fight acne-causing bacteria. Prepare a warm green tea compress and apply it to the affected area for 10 minutes. This reduces inflammation and redness. Drinking green tea regularly also helps.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar balances the skin’s pH levels and kills bacteria. Mix it with water and use a cotton pad to apply it to pimples. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. Use this remedy once or twice daily.
- Honey: Honey has natural antibacterial properties that can eliminate acne-causing bacteria. Apply a dab of raw honey directly on pimples and leave it on overnight. It reduces swelling and redness.
- Cinnamon and Honey Mask: Make a paste with 1 tsp cinnamon powder and 2 tbsp honey. Apply this on pimples and leave for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with water. Repeat 2-3 times a week for the best results.
How to Prevent Teenage Pimples – Simple Methods
- Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Avoid harsh scrubs.
- Use oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen. Avoid heavy makeup.
- Shampoo hair regularly to keep oil and product buildup away from the face.
- Avoid touching or popping pimples with dirty hands as it can spread infection.
- Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Manage stress with yoga, meditation, and adequate sleep.
- Change pillowcases, towels, and bedsheets frequently to prevent transfer of bacteria.
Conclusion
Pimples are a normal part of growing up but they can negatively impact a teenager’s self-confidence. Severe acne requires medical treatment but mild to moderate pimples can be treated safely at home using natural remedies like tea tree oil, aloe vera, honey etc.
Adopting healthy skin and hygiene habits along with a healthy diet and lifestyle can prevent recurring pimples during the teenage years. However, do consult a dermatologist if pimples persist or worsen. With some care and patience, teenage pimples can be controlled effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Over-the-counter creams with retinoids help fade acne scars over time. You can also try DIY remedies like lemon juice, coconut oil, olive oil, honey, aloe vera etc on scars daily. Microdermabrasion treatments and chemical peels by a dermatologist also help minimize acne scarring.
Mild pimples usually go away within a few days with home care. But severe acne with deep inflamed pimples often requires prescription medication. See a dermatologist if your pimples do not diminish with natural treatments.
Popping or squeezing pimples can damage your skin and spread the infection, leading to more pimples. Leave the pimples alone instead and apply a warm compress to bring the pus to the surface. The pimples will start healing on their own.
Toothpaste can dry out pimples temporarily but it is too harsh on facial skin. It can worsen acne, cause dryness, irritation and redness. Avoid using toothpaste on pimples.
