Sunday, September 2, 2007

How Can You Help Your Adolescent Teen With Acne?

Your child has just started Junior High. You would think he should be so excited to finally be able to have the freedom to make some of those little choices on his own. Such as, eating lunch with his friends or what class he wants to take. But no, he has completely thrown you off by his horrible attitude towards school and his family. And yes, usually the family members suffer the pre-teen or teen's attitudes the most. Not because they don't love you, but because this is where they feel safe enough to express their feelings.

So, WHAT is the problem? Of course, there are many reasons why an adolescent turns into the MONSTER of the household. And you should definitely talk to your child to get down to the bottom of the problem. But, many times, your child just does not have the answer. This could be because of hormones. Your adolescent boy or girl can be suffering from many different hormonal changes that they cannot pinpoint. But, one culprit they can pinpoint is Adolescent Acne.

To some parents, acne just should not be the reason for this behavior. Unfortunately, this is the time when appearance is just about everything. And those pimples are just the ammunition a bully needs to harass your child. Even friends tend to have something to say about acne. And when this happens, it really hurts. Acne really does lead to embarrassment which leads to low self-esteem which leads to depression which leads to your MONSTER! Please take your adolescent's feelings seriously. Let him know you understand and that he can come to you with whatever he needs. Communication is important to a happier family life. Help him find ways to control or eliminate acne.

STEPS TO PREVENT OR TREAT ACNE

The best step he can take is to try to keep his skin as clean and oil free as possible. This is obviously not a cure, but will help to prevent future breakouts.

There are many acne treatments available. Usually, the medication includes some type of peroxide or acid, which can dry out the skin. So, be careful not to use it too much.

There are also natural options available. Tea tree oil is one that can be found in many health stores. It helps to kill bacteria.

Natural products right from the cupboard to apply on the outside of the skin:

Apple Cider Vinegar can be helpful in clearing up acne by killing off acne causing bacteria, balancing the skin's pH, and by absorbing extra oil on the skin.

Baking Soda
can be used as a scrub. A scrub exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin that can clog pores and lead to acne.

Egg Whites, which are rich in protein, can heal and rebuild the skin. It can help absorb excess oil from the skin.

Oatmeal
can absorb oil and draw out impurities that are deep in your skin.

The digestive system is a big part of skin's health. Eat healthy and drink lots of water. Water will help by keeping the body flushed and the skin hydrated. Some ideas to keep your digestive system functioning normally are to eat cucumbers, drink lemon or carrot juice, or take charcoal pills. Flax seed helps your skin to heal quicker.

Also, there are many natural supplements and vitamins to help with digestive health, which has a link to healthy skin.

On the bright side, your pre-teen or teen's hormones will eventually adjust to his body. In turn, he should see fewer breakouts. But, it is imperative for a parent to understand the devastation acne can have on a young person. If the behavior continues, or his acne just will not go away, seek professional help. Your child has enough frustrations and hurdles to conquer, without the devastation acne can and does cause. Give your child the support and love needed to live a healthier, happier life.

For more help on acne, visit our website at www.reducepimples.com

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