CONNECTOR.AE 32 CONNECTOR.AE 33 HEALTH AND WELLNESS HEALTH AND WELLNESS So, what exactly causes acne in youngsters, and how can families support their children in managing it? Connector spoke to experts in Dubai to break it down clearly, from triggers to treatment options, and what one should avoid. What Triggers Acne? Hormonal changes are one of the main culprits behind teenage acne. “The most common triggers Acne Solutions For Youngsters: Expert Tips Parents Need To Know For many teenagers, acne is more than just the odd pimple. It’s an ongoing battle that can affect confidence, social life and even emotional wellbeing. And it’s not just teens. Young parents also often find themselves revisiting the struggles of breakouts. While acne is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide, it is also one of themost misunderstood. Many people believe that acne is caused by poor hygiene. In reality, acne is muchmore complex and involves hormones, skin biology, lifestyle factors, and even genetics. for acne in young people are hormonal changes during puberty, which stimulate oil glands to produce excess oil. This, combined with dead skin cells and bacteria, leads to clogged pores and inflammation”, explains Dr. Balazs Hodosi, Consultant Dermatologist at Aesthetics by King’s College Hospital London - Dubai (KCHLD) . “Our skin also naturally harbours bacteria such as Cutibacterium acnes. They feed on sebum, and clogged pores provide the most favourable environment for their growth”, adds Dr. Sevilia Mirzoeva, GP in aesthetic medicine at Zieda Aesthetic Clinic. However hormones aren’t the only factor. Lifestyle habits, including skincare routines, diet and even stress levels play a role. As Chane Ann Marshall, Aesthetician at Aesthetics by KCHLD explains, “Lifestyle habits such as poor skincare routines, inconsistent cleansing, and using comedogenic products can aggravate acne. We also see flareups linked to dietary choices, especially high sugar intake and dairy. Disruptions in gut health, such as imbalances in the gut microbiome or poor digestion, may also play a role in skin inflammation and acne”. Lack of sleep and stress from school or social pressures can further contribute to breakouts, as experts note. Environmental factors play their part too. In the UAE, humidity and pollution can trap sweat and oil on the skin, worsening acne. Genetics also matter. If parents had acne, their children aremore likely to experience it too, according to the experts. Spotting The Different Types Of Acne Not all acne is the same, and knowing the type can make treatment more effective. Dr. Balazs Hodosi from Aesthetics by KCHLD lists the main types: • Comedonal acne looks like blackheads and whiteheads. • Inflammatory acne shows up as red bumps or pus-filled pimples. • Nodulocystic acne is the most severe form, with deep, painful cysts that can cause scarring. Each type requires a tailored approach. “Comedonal acne responds well to topical retinoids, inflammatory acne may need antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide, while severe cystic acne often requires oral medications like isotretinoin”, explains Dr. Balazs Hodosi from Aesthetics by KCHLD. Habits That Help And Those That Harm One of the best ways parents can support youngsters is by guiding them toward healthy daily habits. The right skincare routine is indispensable. “Teens often skip moisturisers thinking they cause “Lifestyle habits such as poor skincare routines, inconsistent cleansing, and using comedogenic products can aggravate acne.’’
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