12 Things To Do If You Have a Teen with Acne who has Dark Skin

Are you tired of watching your teen struggle with acne and its aftermath? Discover the ultimate 12 step guide to combat acne in teenagers-of-color and give them the clear, radiant skin they deserve!

Acne can be a challenging and distressing condition for teenagers. And, dealing with acne can be especially troublesome for those teens with dark skin. Not only do teens-of-color have to deal with the acne itself, but their skin is also more prone to developing dark spots and acne scars.

However, with the right approach and skin care routine, it is possible to greatly reduce and even eliminate acne in teenagers-of-color.

We will share 12 actions that can help in the fight against acne, dark spots, and acne scarring. Implementing these strategies will not only improve the appearance of your teen's skin but also boost their self-confidence.

12 Things To Do If You Have a Teen with Acne who has Dark Skin

1. Cleanse Gently and Regularly

Proper cleansing is the foundation of any skin care routine. It helps remove impurities, excess oil, and dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts.

Your teen should use a gentle cleanser twice a day to wash her/his face. Choose non-comedogenic products that won't clog their pores. Regular cleansing will help keep their skin clean and prevent future breakouts. We recommend Facial Cleanser & Bacteria Fighter™ Step 1 for gentle daily cleansing because it prevents blemishes, fades acne dark spots, kills bacteria, calms irritated skin, and removes dead skin cells which can clog pores.

2. Moisturize Daily

Contrary to popular belief, moisturizing is crucial for acne-prone skin. It helps maintain the skin's healthy barrier function and reduces inflammation. A moisturizing toner like Clarifying Facial Toner & Detoxifier™ Step 2 will help prevent excessive oil production, treats blackheads, prevents blemishes, fades dark spots, and will not sting or burn like other toners.

Choose an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Your teenager should apply moisturizer twice a day to keep their skin hydrated and balanced, promoting a healthier complexion.

3. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and promotes cell turnover, which helps fade dark spots and acne scars.

But, but, but…

We recommend those with skin-of-color NOT do physical exfoliation (i.e., scrubbing with an abrasive brush, patches, or solution) because that could damage your delicate skin leading to scarring, the formation of dark spots, and making your skin even more prone to breaking out.

Instead, choose a topical serum that gently exfoliates your teen’s skin with ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which are effective yet gentle on the skin. We recommend the following four products that work together to fight acne, hydrate, and exfoliate while being super gentle… This anti-acne treatment system was made especially for sensitive skin-of-color:

• Facial Cleanser & Bacteria Fighter™ Step 1
• Clarifying Facial Toner & Detoxifier™ Step 2
• Advanced Acne Treatment & Prevention Serum™ Step 3 - Morning
• Unclog & Repair Pore Serum™ Step 3 - Evening

4. Protect with Sunscreen

Sunscreen is crucial for everyone, especially teenagers with dark skin who are often a bit cavalier about protecting their skin.

Sunscreen can protect against harmful UV rays that can worsen acne, create dark spots, and cause long-term skin damage.

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and encourage your teen to apply it generously to all exposed skin areas every day, even on cloudy days. Sun protection is essential to prevent serious sun damage, as well as dark spots and acne scars.

5. Avoid Squeezing or Picking Acne

Squeezing or picking at acne lesions – while a favorite pastime of many teenagers – can lead to inflammation, infection, and scarring. It's important to

encourage your teen to resist the temptation to pop or scratch at pimples.

Encourage your teen to avoid touching their face and educate them about the potential risks of picking at their acne.

6. Use Topical Treatments

Topical treatments containing ingredients such as Aloe, Alpha-Arbutin, Ascorbic Acid (Vit. C), Azelaic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, Colloidal Sulfur, Glycolic Acid (AHA), Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root, Green Tea Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana, Niacinamide, Ocimum Basilicum, Panthenol (Pro-Vit. B5), Passion Flower, Sage Extract, Salicylic Acid (BHA), Retinoids, Spiraea Ulmaria, and Tea Tree Oil can help control acne, reduce inflammation, reduce dark spot formation, and prevent new breakouts.

If your teen’s acne persists, we suggest you consult a dermatologist to determine the most suitable treatment. Regular application of these treatments can significantly improve acne and prevent future flare-ups.

7. Incorporate Spot Treatments

Spot treatments target individual pimples and can help reduce their size, redness, and inflammation.

Apply a spot treatment directly to active breakouts as needed. Look for products containing ingredients like tea tree oil or sulfur, known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

8. Address Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Dark spots left behind after acne breakouts can be a source of frustration. Addressing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is crucial for achieving an even complexion.

Use acne-fighting products with ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide to help fade your teen’s dark spots. These ingredients can help even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

9. Seek Professional Help

If your teen's acne is severe or persistent, it's essential to consult a dermatologist. They can provide tailored treatment options and guidance for managing their specific skin concerns.

Make an appointment with a dermatologist who specializes in treating skin-of-color. Their expertise will ensure your teen receives the best possible care and personalized recommendations.

10. Practice Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can positively impact your teen’s skin health. Encouraging habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help reduce acne breakouts.

These habits also promote overall well-being, which can reflect positively on their skin.

11. Address Stress

Stress can trigger or exacerbate acne breakouts. By managing stress levels, you can help your teen maintain clearer skin.

Encourage stress-relieving activities such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies they enjoy. Managing stress will improve their skin and benefit their overall mental health.

12. Encourage Self-Love and Confidence

Acne can take a huge toll on self-esteem. As a parent, you know that building self-love and confidence is essential for your teen's well-being.

Remind your teen of their unique qualities and encourage them to embrace their journey to clearer skin. Celebrate their progress and achievements, focusing on their inner beauty and resilience.

The Bottom-Line

By implementing these 12 impactful actions, you can help your teen combat acne, dark spots, and acne scars. With consistency and patience, they can achieve clear and radiant skin, boosting their self-confidence and overall well-being.

And, always Love Your Brown Skin®.