Approximately 50 million Americans are affected by acne each year, making it one of the most common skin problems throughout the United States. Adding to the already problematic issues is the fact that youths with acne are at a higher risk of becoming the victims of bullying compared to those without acne. Fortunately, if you have a youth with an acne problem, there are many great dermatology tips that can help.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Certain commonly made mistakes can contribute to acne problems. For example, wearing makeup in the hopes that it will cover up the appearance of acne and acne scars may actually worsen acne symptoms. Makeup has a tendency to clog the pores, which allows acne to thrive. Instead, encourage your child to keep their face clean and clear of any makeup.

If makeup seems to be a necessary part of your child's daily routine, opt for products that are labeled hypoallergenic. You should also look for products that are free of any fragrances. Of course, there is no guarantee that these products won't have a negative impact on the skin. Therefore, it is best to test the makeup on a small, unseen area to see if a breakout occurs.

You should also make sure your child washes their face properly. To begin with, a face washing routine should begin with a pair of clean hands. Therefore, washing the hands prior to washing the face is highly recommended. Ensure that your child has a clean, dry towel nearby along with a proper cleanser. A mild soap can work wonders if used properly.

Contrary to popular belief, your child should never use hot or cold water to wash the face. Lukewarm water is the best approach. Hot water does not really open the pores as many would believe, nor does cold water close them. Since pores lack muscles, this myth simply will not work. In fact, hot water may very well diminish the skin's natural oils whereas cold water can irritate the skin.

Wash the face with a soft cloth or exfoliating facial sponge. Use circular motions to clean the face and then rinse the face thoroughly. Use a clean, dry towel to pat the face rather than rubbing away the water. Patting the face dry removes dirt whereas rubbing can cause irritation and rub dirt, grime, and unhealthy oils further into the pores.

Select the Right Products

There is no such thing as one-size-fits-all when it comes to selecting products that will clear up acne. However, there are a few products that are certainly worth a try. For instance, look for products containing activated black charcoal. Activated charcoal offers a number of different benefits, including ridding the body of toxins, which can help clear up acne for healthier looking skin.

Another ingredient to keep your eye out for would be kaolin clay. Kaolin clay acts as a gentle exfoliator, which in turn helps clean the face and get rid of acne. Thanks to its exfoliating properties, the clay promotes circulation, which can improve the overall appearance and health of your child's skin. As an added benefit, kaolin clay contains disinfectant properties, which helps to remove and heal blemishes.

Of course, if acne or acne scarring is bad enough to impact your child's self-esteem, it is best to speak with a professional dermatologist. A dermatologist can recommend more ways to help improve the appearance of your child's skin. In fact, cosmetic dermatology can be used to remove acne scarring for a healthier, more radiant appearance. To learn more, speak with a business like Dermatology Associates PC.