Teen acne tips: How to treat & prevent breakouts

AP classes, new roommates, rushing a sorority, and…BREAKOUTS. No one wants to face back-to-school festivities with less-than-clear skin. But of course, this can be when breakouts flare up most. 

While products for teen acne have come a long way, the harrowing emotions surrounding it have not. We asked the following experts to provide real-world perspective on why breakouts flare-up during back to school, and how to get rid of acne to re-gain confidence and control. 

The experts:

• Dr. Roberta Del Campo, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Skin Laundry, and proud mom of 3 boys 
• Stephanie Cucchiara, Medical Esthetician at Seaside Skin Care

But first, a quick lesson on acne

• According to Informed Health, most teens get acne at some point in their lives and clears up on its own by 20 
  Acne is the most common skin condition in teens, and it is more common in boys than girls 
• Acne is classified from mild to moderate to severe 
• Mild acne includes blackheads and whiteheads (non-inflammatory) 
• Moderate acne includes more inflamed acne pimples (papules that are small bumps or pustules that have yellow pus) 
• Severe acne includes papules, pustules, and nodules that can be red and incredibly painful. Traditionally, severe acne leads to scarring 
• Not all acne is acne. Some skin conditions like folliculitis, keratosis pilaris, and rosacea present as acne but are triggered by other things 

Why does teen acne flare up when returning to school?

“Breakouts have many triggers and several factors can contribute—including hormonal changes—with the stress hormone cortisol commonly playing a role in teen acne,” Del Campo says. “Whether stress from excitement or stress from nerves, it’s not the only culprit. “Dirt, oil, and debris can also build up over a long day at school, while sports equipment (like helmets, chin pads, or occlusive clothing) can block pores.” 
 
One or all of these factors can trigger one of the main causes of acne: clogged pores. “Clogged pores develop into whiteheads and blackheads and ultimately pustules once bacteria is introduced. In addition, when school starts, teens’ daily routines often shift, leaving them less attuned to their skin’s needs which can trigger this cycle of breakouts.” 

Cucchiara also notes that, “Back to school often means increased stress, which can trigger excess oil production. Then there’s the constant contact with surfaces like phones and dirty hands. Add in heat, sweat, and long school days, and you’ve got a recipe for clogged pores and inflammation,” Cucchiara tells us. 
 
Whether it’s acne or an acne imitator like folliculitis (prompted by excessive rubbing our touching of skin, wearing tight clothes, or shaving dry skin) each type requires a different level of care. “But the goal is always the same: calm the skin, clear the breakouts, and build confidence,” Cucchiara says. 

Are there any specific acne-clearing or acne-preventing ingredients for teens?

The functionality of teen skin is different than an adults, and that impacts treatment. For example, an adult with acne may be more prone to sensitivity and resistant to traditional treatments, whereas teen skin may be able to tolerate more intense topicals and can respond more rapidly to treatment. But that doesn’t mean to get aggressive: balance and consistency are key. 

Cucchiara shares her tried-and-true ingredients for treating teen acne: 

• Salicylic acid: A gentle chemical (non-abrasive) exfoliant that helps unclog pores and reduce inflammation 
• Benzoyl peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria and helps calm active breakouts 
• Niacinamide: A skin-soothing multitasker that reduces redness and supports the skin barrier 
• Azelaic acid: Great for post-acne marks and inflammation, with minimal irritation 

Does retinol treat acne?

“We’re seeing more teens dabble in retinols and anti-aging formulas thanks to TikTok trends,” Cucchiara says. “Retinoids can be helpful for acne, but they’re potent, and not every teen needs them. Unless prescribed by a dermatologist, it’s best to avoid anti-aging products and stick with ingredients designed for acne-prone skin.”  
 
Del Campo agrees: “I am not in favor of ‘anti-aging’ products for teens, as this trend can lead to using formulas that aren’t appropriate for younger skin. However, I do support products that maintain skin health—some of which also fall into the ‘anti-aging’ category.” 

For example, Del Campo recommends that all teens use a mineral sunblock (yes, sunscreens are preventative which makes them fall under the anti-aging category). “A simple regimen tailored to your skin type—including adequate sun protection—is essential.” 

Is there anything beyond topical treatments that can help treat and clear teen acne?

“Building skin confidence helps build overall confidence,” Del Campo says. “Seek out teen acne professional treatments like laser facials, resurfacing technology, and gentle peels that not only help heal active breakouts at a dermal level, but also target signs of past breakouts to make skin clearer, smoother and brighter.” 

What are some teen acne tips or myths you’d love to debunk?

Myth: You don’t need moisturizer if you have oily or acne-prone skin 
Truth: “Skipping moisturizer can actually lead to more oil production and irritation,” Cucchiara says. “Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that hydrate without clogging pores.” Del Campo adds, “All teens should use a moisturizer suited to their skin type, as this keeps the skin barrier intact and sealed (especially when using a retinoid).” 

Myth: Sunscreen makes acne worse 
Truth: ‘The right sunscreen protects skin from damage and helps prevent dark spots from healing breakouts. Choose an oil-free, mineral-based SPF designed for sensitive or acne-prone skin.” 

Myth: Scrubbing your face helps clear acne 
Truth: “Harsh exfoliation can damage your skin barrier and worsen inflammation. Be gentle and consistent instead.” 

The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Murad, and are for informational purposes only, even if the advice of physicians and medical practitioners are included. This article is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be considered specific medical advice.   

References for this information:
Brazilian Society of Dermatology, 2022, volume 98, issue 1, pages 75-83