Acne

Acne is a widespread skin issue originating from hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Hair follicles serve as the roots for hairs, while sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum that travels up the hair shaft to the skin’s surface.

Sebum helps keep skin and hair moisturized. Acne develops when pores become clogged by excess oil mixed with dead skin cells.

Bacteria naturally present on the skin can invade these blocked pores, leading to breakouts.

Acne affects many children and young people between ages 11 and 30. While it commonly starts during adolescence, it can appear at any age, including infancy.

Childhood acne generally falls into three categories:

Infantile Acne: Appears in babies aged 6 to 16 months, often peaking near 9 months. It usually results from temporary hormonal imbalances as the baby adjusts after birth.

Mid-Childhood Acne: Occurs between ages one and seven. Though androgen hormones are typically low, early hormone activity can cause acne, linked to premature adrenarche or early puberty signs.

Preadolescent Acne: Happens between ages 7 and 12, marking puberty’s onset and increased adrenal androgen production. This stage often shows the most frequent childhood acne cases.

Knowing what triggers childhood acne helps parents take preventive steps and seek timely care when needed.

Hormones play a major role in childhood acne. During puberty, hormones activate sebaceous glands to produce more oil, which can clog pores.

Even in younger children, hormonal shifts can cause acne. For example, infantile acne may arise from temporary hormone changes, while preadolescent acne signals puberty’s hormonal surge.

A family history of acne increases a child’s risk. If parents had acne as kids or teens, their child may inherit tendencies toward oily skin and inflammation.

Pollution, allergens, and skin irritants can inflame skin and worsen acne. Hot, humid weather and sweating, especially from sports or active play, can also contribute.

Research on diet’s impact on acne is ongoing. Some evidence links high-glycemic foods and dairy to increased acne in some children. However, diet effects vary individually and should be discussed with your child’s doctor.

Childhood changes and challenges—like starting a new school or peer pressure—can increase stress, which may worsen acne by affecting hormone levels.

Spotting childhood acne can be tricky as it often looks different from adult acne. Look for these signs:

• Whiteheads: Small, round, white or flesh-colored bumps with closed pores, caused by blocked follicles without exposure to air.
• Blackheads: Small dark bumps with open pores, where trapped sebum oxidizes upon air exposure.
• Papules: Small red, raised bumps sensitive to touch, caused by inflammation under the skin.
• Pustules: Like papules but with white or yellow pus centers, commonly called pimples.
• Nodules: Larger, painful lumps deep under the skin, indicating a strong inflammatory reaction.
• Cysts: Severe, painful, pus-filled lumps deep in the skin that can cause scarring and usually need medical care.

Managing childhood acne often combines gentle home care with professional advice:

• Gentle Cleansing: Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers twice daily to keep skin clean without irritation.
• Over-the-Counter Treatments: Products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help mild acne.
• Prescription Medications: For moderate to severe acne, doctors may recommend topical or oral antibiotics.
• Avoid Scrubbing: Harsh scrubbing or picking can worsen acne and cause scars. Encourage children not to touch pimples.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Balanced diet, regular exercise, and hydration support skin health.
• Stress Reduction: Activities like mindfulness, exercise, and relaxation can help manage stress-related acne flare-ups.

If your child’s acne doesn’t improve or is severe, reach out to Sammy Kim, MD for trusted, personalized care.

Acne isn’t just a teenage issue—it can affect kids too. At Sammy Kim, MD, we offer caring pediatric skin care tailored to your child’s needs.

We’ll help you find effective treatments and guide you through prevention strategies. Call Sammy Kim, MD at (818) 789-0941 or contact us online to get started.