The average age for girls to begin puberty is 11, while for boys the average age is 12. Sebum (oil) production starts to pick up around this time and one of the most common complaints I hear from teenage patients is that they are self-conscious about greasy skin, visible pores or blackheads, especially on the nose, forehead and chin.
Blackheads are essentially a mixture of excess oil and dead skin cells which get trapped in the pores. A chemical reaction occurs when the mixture is exposed to air, turning it black, and this is what gives blackheads their characteristic appearance.
Up to 85% of teenagers will experience some form of acne at one time or another and I try to reassure my patients that they are not alone. Nonetheless, it should not be considered a rite of passage that everyone has to suffer through, regardless of the severity. Establishing a skincare routine and teaching teens how to look after their skin is important, both for skin health and for self-esteem.
Speak to your parents or GP if you are struggling with your skin. We have lots of experience helping teens and their parents navigate this tricky time.
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