What Products Are Good for Teenage Acne?
Teenage acne is incredibly common. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that acne affects around 85% of adolescents. Hormonal changes during puberty can increase oil production, which can contribute to clogged pores, blackheads and breakouts.
But when a teenager starts breaking out, more skincare is not necessarily better.
According to dermatologists, one of the best places to start is with a simple, gentle and consistent routine.
Start with gentle cleansing
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends gently washing acne-prone skin up to twice a day and after sweating.
Harsh scrubbing, abrasive cleansers and repeatedly exfoliating the skin can irritate it and may make acne appear worse.
For teenage skin, look for a cleanser that removes excess oil and impurities without leaving the skin feeling stripped or tight.
Acne-prone skin still needs moisturiser
It can seem counterintuitive to moisturise oily or acne-prone skin, but hydration remains important.
Dermatologists recommend looking for moisturisers labelled oil-free, non-comedogenic or “won’t clog pores”.
A suitable moisturiser helps support the skin barrier and can reduce some of the dryness and irritation that often accompanies acne-prone skin and acne treatments.
What ingredients actually treat acne?
Several ingredients have strong clinical evidence behind them.
The American Academy of Dermatology’s acne treatment guidelines recommend established treatments including benzoyl peroxide and topical retinoids, while ingredients such as salicylic acid and azelaic acid can also be appropriate.
Which treatment is best depends on the type and severity of the acne.
Stronger does not automatically mean better — particularly for younger or sensitive skin.
Keep the routine simple
This may be one of the most important pieces of advice for teenagers.
Dermatologists caution against complicated skincare routines for young skin. Consistency with a few well-chosen products is generally more useful than continually introducing new actives or following every skincare trend.
A simple routine can look like:
Morning: Cleanse → Moisturise
Evening: Cleanse → Treatment or serum → Moisturise
Zanna follows the same simple philosophy with its three-step routine: Foaming Wash, Radiance Serum and Clarifying Moisturiser.
The range includes carefully selected ingredients such as niacinamide, bakuchiol, Chinese foxglove and Bulbine for young, changing and breakout-prone skin.
When should you see a dermatologist?
Skincare can support healthy, breakout-prone skin, but persistent or more severe acne may need medical treatment. Painful nodules, significant inflammation, acne that is causing scarring, or acne that does not improve with appropriate over-the-counter care should be assessed by a doctor or dermatologist. NICE also highlights the importance of treating acne appropriately because it can cause permanent scarring and have a significant emotional impact.
The key message is simple:
Don’t attack teenage skin with everything at once. Start gently, choose evidence-led products and give a consistent routine time to work.
Sources:
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) — Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris; Acne skin-care guidance; dermatologist guidance on skincare for young people.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) — Acne vulgaris: management.
