Becoming a teenager usually involves going through lots of changes. These changes may be both physical and emotional, and one area that many teenagers notice a change in first is their skin. Fortunately, when young skin doesn't look or feel as healthy as it should, a visit to a dermatologist can normally resolve this problem. These are some common teenage skin conditions that dermatologists often treat.
Acne
Acne is the most common skin condition of all among people between the ages of 12 and 20. Acne is caused when the pores of the skin become clogged. This happens because during the teenage years, the skin produces more oil than it has in the past due to a change in the body's hormones. Excess oil can trap dirt and grime in the pores, and soon blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples become visible. There are different types of acne treatments that a dermatologist may prescribe. The medication may vary depending on the type of skin the patient has and how severe his or her acne is. Washing the face frequently and always removing makeup before going to bed may help clear up acne as well.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a standard term used for skin that has a rash. It may be red and itchy, and the skin may appear to be excessively dry as well. Dermatitis can be caused by a number of different things, and sometimes it is not easy to pinpoint the exact cause. These could include changing skin care products, using a different laundry detergent, eating foods that one has unknowingly become allergic to, or even going through a particularly stressful time in one's life. A dermatologist will usually prescribe a medication to help clear up the rash and also have the patient write down if anything out of the ordinary occurs and the rash returns. This may help determine what caused the rash so that it can be avoided in the future.
Dandruff
Some people also discover they have more noticeable dandruff during their teenage years. They may be embarrassed and feel like this is because they are not washing their hair frequently enough, but that is not usually the case. Dandruff can also occur due to a change in one's hormones and can normally be controlled with a special dandruff shampoo prescribed by the dermatologist.
Athlete's Foot
Another skin condition that many teenagers suffer from is athlete's foot. Athlete's foot occurs when the feet are exposed to damp, sweaty socks and shoes for long periods of time. This causes fungus to grow on the feet, toes, or ankles and can result in itchy, painful peeling skin in these areas. There are over-the-counter medications for this problem, but it may require medication from a dermatologist to control it, especially if the patient has a very active lifestyle.
Being a teenager is stressful enough without having to deal with skin problems. Seeing a dermatologist can help one have skin that looks and feels healthy again while also helping the teenager regain their self-confidence as well. Contact a company like Desert Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists to learn more.