Back-to-School Breakouts: Treating Teen Acne Before It Gets Worse
Backpacks, sports schedules, and new routines aren’t the only things teens face in the fall—acne often comes with the school year too. Between hormones, stress, and increased physical activity, many teens experience breakouts just as they’re returning to social environments where appearance matters most.
At Summit Dermatology in Medford, OR, we know how overwhelming teen acne can be—for both teens and parents. That’s why we offer specialized dermatology care for adolescents, helping them tackle breakouts early with a plan that works for their unique skin and lifestyle.
Early Intervention Makes a Big Difference
The key to managing teen acne effectively is early intervention. Waiting too long can result in more advanced acne types like cystic breakouts or nodules, which are harder to treat and more likely to leave scars. Addressing acne in its early stages not only clears the skin faster, but also helps protect the teen’s confidence and emotional well-being.
At Summit Dermatology, we help teens understand what’s happening with their skin, avoid common skincare mistakes, and create a treatment plan that sets them up for long-term success. We always emphasize education, patience, and realistic expectations.
Common Causes of Teen Acne
Understanding the root causes of acne is essential to treating it effectively. For teens, the most common contributors include:
Hormones: Androgens increase during puberty, which stimulates oil production and leads to clogged pores. This is the primary reason acne is so common during adolescence.
Genetics: If one or both parents had moderate to severe acne, there’s a greater chance their child will experience it too.
Lifestyle habits: Inconsistent skincare, poor diet, makeup use, dirty phone screens, and stress can all contribute to breakouts. Sweaty sports gear and helmets can also trigger acne in specific areas like the forehead, chest, or back.
Over-the-counter product misuse: Teens often try harsh scrubs or drying treatments that disrupt the skin barrier, irritating and rebound oiliness.
Our Customized Approach to Teen Acne Treatment
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to acne—especially for teens. At Summit Dermatology, we build personalized treatment plans that consider acne type, skin sensitivity, and the teen’s daily routine. Our care options include:
Topical prescriptions: We may recommend medical-grade retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or antibiotics to reduce inflammation and unclog pores without over-drying the skin.
Oral medications: For moderate to severe acne, oral antibiotics or hormonal treatments (like spironolactone or birth control for teen girls) may be prescribed. These help regulate internal factors driving breakouts.
In-office procedures: For faster results, we offer safe treatments like HydraFacials®, chemical peels, and blue light therapy that can reduce active acne and prevent new breakouts. For painful cysts, cortisone injections can offer quick relief.
Skincare guidance: We educate teens (and parents) on which cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens are safe and effective for acne-prone skin. We help them avoid harmful trends and build habits that support long-term skin health.
Follow-up and support: Acne treatment takes time. We schedule regular check-ins to adjust plans as needed and ensure teens are seeing progress without overwhelming their routine.
FAQS
Is teen acne normal?
Yes, acne is extremely common during adolescence due to hormonal changes. However, just because it’s normal doesn’t mean it should go untreated. With the right care, breakouts can be minimized and future scarring prevented.
When should my teen see a dermatologist for acne?
If acne is persistent, painful, spreading, or impacting your teen’s confidence, it’s time to see a dermatologist. Early treatment often leads to better outcomes and less frustration.
Does my teen need prescription treatment?
In many cases, yes. Over-the-counter options may help with mild acne, but moderate or severe breakouts usually require prescription-strength products or oral medications for lasting results.
What if my teen forgets to follow their skincare routine?
We tailor our plans to be easy to follow and age-appropriate. If a teen struggles with compliance, we can adjust the regimen to fit their habits and lifestyle—without sacrificing results.
Can diet or stress cause teen acne?
Diet and stress may not directly cause acne, but can certainly make it worse. We help teens understand the connection and offer tips for managing breakouts alongside school pressures and extracurriculars.
Why Choose Summit Dermatology for Teen Acne in Medford, OR?
At Summit Dermatology, we offer more than acne treatment—we offer support, education, and confidence-building for teens at every stage. Our compassionate team understands the emotional toll breakouts can take during adolescence, and we treat every patient with patience and respect.
When you choose us, your teen receives:
A personalized treatment plan that evolves with their needs
Access to safe, dermatologist-approved prescriptions and procedures
Clear guidance and communication to help build healthy skincare habits
A welcoming space where teens (and parents) feel heard and support.
Start the School Year with Clearer Skin—Book Your Teen’s Acne Visit Today
Don’t wait for acne to get worse. Whether your teen is experiencing their first breakouts or battling stubborn cystic acne, our dermatology team is here to help. Early care leads to better skin, fewer scars, and more confidence throughout the school year.
🏢 Address: 1910 East Barnett Road, Suite 101, Medford, OR 97504
🕒 Clinic Hours: Monday – Thursday | 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
📞 Phone: 541-200-2022
📍 Call or visit Summit Dermatology in Medford, OR to schedule a consultation today
✨ Let’s clear the way for a healthy, confident school year—one face at a time.
