Most teen acne can be managed at home with a steady routine. Expect 8–12 weeks to see strong improvement.
Basics that work
- Wash face twice daily and after sports with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. No scrubbing or harsh brushes.
- Use non-comedogenic moisturizer daily (gel/lotion for oily skin, cream for dry).
- Don’t pick—picking causes dark marks and scars.
Core treatment plan (start low and go slow)
- Morning:
- Benzoyl peroxide (BP) 2.5–5% gel or wash to kill acne bacteria and reduce resistance. If using a BP wash, lather and leave on 60 seconds before rinsing.
- Light, oil-free moisturizer; sunscreen SPF 30+ if outdoors.
- Night:
- Apply a retinoid pea-sized amount to the entire acne-prone area (not just spots):
- Over-the-counter adapalene 0.1% is a good start.
- Start every other night for 2 weeks, then nightly as tolerated.
- Moisturize after if dry.
- Apply a retinoid pea-sized amount to the entire acne-prone area (not just spots):
Add-ons for specific needs
- For inflammatory red bumps: combine BP with a topical antibiotic (e.g., clindamycin) prescribed by a clinician—ideally paired with BP to minimize resistance.
- For blackheads/whiteheads: retinoid is key; consider salicylic acid 0.5–2% wash a few times weekly if not too drying.
- For females with hormonal flares (jawline, before periods): talk to a clinician about oral contraceptives approved for acne or spironolactone.
- For truncal acne: use a BP body wash in the shower; rinse thoroughly and use white towels/sheets to avoid bleaching.
When to see a clinician
- Moderate or severe acne, scarring, or dark marks forming.
- No improvement after 8–12 weeks of consistent routine.
- Painful cysts/nodules—may need oral antibiotics for a short course, intralesional steroid shots, or isotretinoin in severe cases.
Tips to avoid irritation
- Introduce one new product at a time.
- Use a moisturizer to buffer dryness from retinoids or BP.
- Avoid harsh toners, strong fragrance, and abrasive scrubs.
Lifestyle notes
- Sweat can clog pores—rinse after workouts and change out of sweaty clothes.
- Diet: some teens notice flares with skim milk or high glycemic foods; focus on balanced meals; changes help some but are not mandatory for all.
- Makeup: choose non-comedogenic products; remove before bed.
Sun and skin tone
- Retinoids and BP can increase sun sensitivity—use SPF 30+.
- For darker skin tones, reduce irritation to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation; gentle routines and sun protection help marks fade.
Quick starter kit
- Gentle cleanser
- Benzoyl peroxide 2.5–5% (AM)
- Adapalene 0.1% gel (PM, every other night then nightly)
- Oil-free moisturizer + SPF