A general acne categorization is based upon age. If children with 1 to 7-years-old have this acne problem, it is time to worry, while acne originating in children with age 7-12 is not a matter of concern. Acne in children progressing in this 1 to 7 years age range is relatively uncommon. However, toddler acne can develop in toddlers, too. Baby acne usually goes away on its own in a few weeks and isn’t usually a matter of concern. Besides, toddler acne is more severe and usually warrants a pediatrician’s visit to know the basic reason. Certainly, the condition indicates the need for a detailed endocrinologic check-up.
Certain conditions can be the possible causes, including a gonadal or adrenal tumor, precocious adrenarche, Cushing’s syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and precocious puberty. Whereas, child acne in the age group 7 to 12 years, with no indication or history of endocrinopathy, is quite normal and should not be referred for further evaluation. It is called preadolescent acne, which is expected in this age group.
HOW DOES ACNE DEVELOP?
The skin has the sebaceous glands that produce oil (sebum), which travels through the skin’s hair follicle. So, when these sebaceous glands get clogged in the pores of the skin, it causes acne. Child acne originates in the following conditions:
Clogged sebaceous glands cause acne in the pores of the skin. The sebaceous glands produce oil (sebum), which usually travels via hair follicles to the skin surface. Acne in Children arises in the following manner:
- Blackheads are formed in case of an incomplete blockage of the hair follicle.
- Whitehead formation in case of a complete blockage of the hair follicle
- Infection and irritation
- When the plugged follicle bursts and the bacteria onto the skin surface causes irritation and pimples or lesions develop
- When the inflamed pimples in children shove down into the skin, ultimately causing pus-filled cysts that rupture and result in larger pustules.
WHAT CAUSES ACNE IN CHILDREN?
It is a general notion that when hormone levels elevate during puberty, it may cause child acne or pimples in children, and it’s true, by the way. However, child acne is often heredity, there are other significant causes of acne in children, including the following:
- Hormone level changes in girls
- Oil and grease from the scalp
- Cosmetics with oily ingredients may worsen acne.
- Bacteria inside pores
- Popping the pimples can intensify acne.
HOW IS CHILD ACNE TREATED?
Acne Treatment depends on the child’s symptoms, age, overall health, and severity. Your child’s pediatrician prescribes the baby acne treatment for acne that improves the appearance of the skin. Moreover, treatment for child acne will include gentle, regular skincare and/or some medications or procedures. Your child’s pediatrician may advise:
- Cleansers and creams, lotions, gels, or other products.
- Topical medicines are prescribed to layer on the skin to treat acne. These include cream, gel, or lotion.
- Medicines that are taken orally.
- Therapies or procedures,i.e., laser therapy, light therapy, or chemical peels.
Acne isn’t fun, no matter your age; however, acne in children requires visiting the best pediatrician for more information and personalized treatment advice.
