Acne in Children
At puberty, in either sex, there is increased activity in the sebaceous glands, which produce the natural skin oils. As a result, the duct from the gland to the surface of the skin may become blocked, especially when the adolescent has a greasy skin.
The block causes oils to build up in the gland and forces the plug out of the mouth of the duct, forming a blackhead (comedo); alternatively it may so enlarge the gland that yellow pustules are formed. Germs that are normally harmlessly present in the gland may, in these circumstances break down the oils into acids, which then lack out and irritate the surrounding skin. Acne eventually clears up after adolescence, but if it is severe it needs to be controlled if considerable permanent scarring, as well as misery and embarrassment, is to be avoided.
Treatment is aimed at cleaning the blocked duct and preventing the irritation. The child should wash his face two or three times a day. Use a sulfur-containing soap if your doctor thinks this is necessary. The blackheads should be removed and the pustules lanced; both these tasks are best done under medical supervision. Occasionally, a long course of antibiotics may help by killing off the germs.