Teenagers with Acne in Utah
Almost every Utah teenager can expect to get acne at some point during adolescence, but that doesn’t make it easier to bear. The emotional toll of acne is a familiar problem for many young people and can wreak havoc on adolescent self-confidence. Fortunately, almost all cases of acne are treatable
Who gets acne?
Anyone of any age can get acne, even adults, but it is most common in teenagers. In fact, acne is considered a normal part of adolescence. 100% of the population can expect to have acne at some time during adolescence, regardless of race or ethnicity. During puberty, elevated hormone levels stimulate higher sebum production than usual, increasing the chance of acne flares.
Boys are more likely to get it during adolescence because their skin tends to produce more sebum. In adulthood, women are more prone to acne than men, likely because of the hormonal swings of menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
People with a family history of acne are also more likely to get acne.
Sports and acne mechanica
Teens who play sports, wear a backpack, or play a musical instrument that comes into contact with the face and neck may get a form of acne called acne mechanica. This type of acne is caused by irritation to the skin from excessive heat or sweat, friction, or pressure. The American Academy of Dermatology lists these common sports-related sources of acne mechanica:
- Helmets and helmet straps, especially those worn by football and hockey players and motorcycle riders
- Shoulder pads and straps worn by football players
- Tight uniforms made of synthetic fabric
- Tight headbands worn by soccer players and runners
- Straps and packs on backpacks
Other common causes of acne mechanica are:
- Straps used by soldiers for weapons and equipment
- Headbands worn for long periods of time
- Musical instruments, such as the violin, tucked against the neck for hours
- Tight fur caps worn for long periods of time
- Tight clothing, such as jeans and underwear made of synthetic fabric
- Snug bra straps
- Adhesive tape that remains on the skin for several days (occasionally)
