Acne

Overview

Acne is a common skin problem that causes spots, pimples, and bumps to appear, especially on the face, back, and chest. It happens when the pores in the skin get blocked by oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. While acne is mostly seen in teenagers, it can affect children and adults too. Although acne can be frustrating, it can be treated, and the skin can be kept clear with the right care.

Symptoms

Children with acne may notice:

Red or swollen spots, often called pimples
Blackheads or whiteheads
Painful, deep lumps under the skin
Dark marks that stay on the skin after the pimples heal
Skin that is oily or shiny

Causes

Acne is caused by a mix of things, including:

Hormonal changes, especially during puberty
The skin producing too much oil
Dead skin cells clogging the pores
Bacteria on the skin leading to pimples
Stress or certain foods that may trigger breakouts

Diagnosis

Diagnosing acne is straightforward and usually involves:

A simple look at the skin by a doctor
Talking about any symptoms and what might be causing them
In some cases, blood tests to check for hormone levels if needed

Treatment Options

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we offer a variety of treatments to help clear up acne, such as:

Cleansing products: Gentle face washes to keep the skin clean and reduce oil
Topical treatments: Creams or gels that can help dry out pimples and stop new ones from forming
Oral medications: Pills that can reduce oil production or kill bacteria in more severe cases
Lifestyle tips: Advice on diet, skincare routines, and how to avoid things that might make acne worse

Patient Success Stories

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with Acne. Here’s why families trust us:

“My daughter struggled with acne for a long time, and it really affected her self-esteem. The doctors at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital were amazing. They found the right treatment for her, and now her skin is much clearer. She feels so much better about herself.”
JaneParent of a child with acne

Acne in Children

While acne can’t always be prevented, keeping the skin clean and avoiding known triggers like greasy foods or certain skincare products can help reduce breakouts.

It’s best to avoid popping pimples because it can lead to scarring and make acne worse. It’s better to let treatments do their work.

It can take a few weeks to see improvement with acne treatment, but it’s important to stick with the plan and be patient.

Contact Us

If your child is dealing with acne, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment with our pediatric dermatology clinic to get personalized care and support.

Contact us today to learn more about our Acne treatment options.