Find the best teen acne treatment options, debunk common myths and learn when to seek professional help. Here’s medical guidance for parents and teens from a pediatrician.

Published: October 23, 2025

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

If your teenager is dealing with acne breakouts, they’re not alone. Acne is incredibly common; most teens experience some type of acne during adolescence, making it one of the most universal aspects of growing up. While navigating teen acne treatment might feel overwhelming, understanding the facts can help you navigate this phase with more confidence.

Why does teen acne develop?

Hormones

During puberty, shifting hormone levels trigger oil glands to produce excess sebum (natural skin oil). When this extra oil combines with dead skin cells, it blocks pores and creates the perfect environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive.

Other reasons for developing acne

• Genetics: Family history often predicts acne severity.
• Skin care products: Heavy, oil-based products can worsen breakouts.
• Environmental factors: Tight clothing or sports equipment pressing against skin can contribute to acne.
• Stress levels: High stress can trigger flare-ups, especially during exam periods.

Busting common acne myths

Myth: Eating chocolate and greasy foods directly causes breakouts.
Fact: While a balanced diet supports overall skin health, no single food has been proven to cause acne.

Myth: Acne results from poor hygiene.
Fact: Acne develops beneath the skin’s surface, not from surface dirt. Over-washing actually can irritate skin and worsen breakouts.

Myth: You can scrub acne away.
Reality: Harsh scrubbing irritates inflamed skin and can spread bacteria, making acne worse.

Over-the-counter teen acne treatment options

Many teens can manage mild to moderate acne with consistent use of drugstore products:

Benzoyl peroxide kills acne bacteria and reduces oil production. Start with 2.5% or 5% strength to minimize irritation. Apply to entire affected areas, not just visible pimples. Important to note: Products can bleach clothing and bedding.

Salicylic acid helps unclog pores by removing dead skin cells. It is available in cleansers, toners and spot treatments and is generally milder than benzoyl peroxide.

Gentle cleansing routines can remove excess oil and bacteria. Using lukewarm water, wash affected areas twice daily with mild, fragrance-free cleanser and pat skin dry. Follow with appropriate acne treatment products to clean, dry skin.

When is professional teen acne treatment needed?
Pediatricians can help guide families through teen acne treatment options, whether it’s recommending specific over-the-counter products, prescribing medications when needed or referring to a dermatologist for more severe cases.

Consider scheduling a consultation when:

• Over-the-counter treatments haven’t improved acne after six to eight weeks.
• Acne is causing emotional distress or affecting self-confidence.
• Deep, painful cysts or nodules develop.
• Scarring begins to appear.

The teen years are crucial for developing self-confidence. Persistent breakouts can lead to decreased self-esteem, social withdrawal and anxiety about appearance.

“Don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s pediatrician when it comes to teen acne treatment; we’re here to help before acne affects their confidence,” said Patrick K. Hynes, M.D., pediatrician with Norton Children’s Medical Group. “Addressing acne isn’t vanity — it’s supporting your teen’s overall well-being and mental health.”

Prescription treatment options may include:

• Topical retinoids to prevent clogged pores
• Prescription antibiotics for inflammatory acne
• Hormonal treatments for female patients
• Advanced therapies for severe, scarring acne

Building an effective teen acne treatment routine

1. Morning: Gentle cleanser, treatment product, oil-free moisturizer and sunscreen
2. Evening: Removing makeup/sunscreen; gentle cleanser, treatment product, moisturizer
3. Always: Keeping hands away from face; changing pillowcases regularly

Also, don’t pick or squeeze pimples! Picking at pimples can push bacteria deeper into skin, increase inflammation and healing time, create permanent scarring and even spread infection to surrounding areas.Instead, teach your teen to apply spot treatments or use hydrocolloid patches that safely and gently draw out impurities.

Being supportive during teen acne treatment

For parents:

• Validate your teen’s concerns without minimizing their feelings.
• Help establish consistent skin care routines.
• Be patient — most treatments take six to 12 weeks to show results.

For teens:

• Remember that acne is temporary and treatable.
• Stick with treatments even when progress seems slow.
• Don’t compare your skin to filtered social media images.

Remember, navigating teen acne treatment is a journey that requires patience and consistency. Most teens see improvement with appropriate care and treatments within a few months.