781-235-9737Acne Management for Teens and Preteens
Clearer Skin. Greater Confidence. Expert Pediatric Care.
At Universal Pediatric Associates, our pediatricians provide compassionate, evidence-based acne management for children, preteens, and teens. Acne is one of the most common skin concerns in adolescence — and while it’s normal, it can affect confidence, comfort, and even self-esteem.
Our team helps families understand what causes acne and offers personalized treatment options to restore healthy, clear skin.
What Causes Acne in Kids and Teens?
Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria.
During puberty, hormone changes increase oil production, making acne more common — especially on the face, chest, shoulders, and back.
Common contributing factors include:
- Hormonal changes during puberty
- Genetics or family history
- Oily skin or overactive sebaceous glands
- Use of heavy lotions or cosmetics
- Stress and certain medications
- Poor skin-care routines or over-cleansing
Our pediatricians help families identify triggers and create healthy daily habits that support long-term skin health.
Types of Acne We Treat
We provide evaluation and treatment for all types of acne, including:
- Whiteheads and blackheads (non-inflammatory acne)
- Papules and pustules (red bumps and pimples)
- Cystic acne (deep, painful breakouts)
- Back and chest acne
- Acne related to sports gear or mask use (“maskne”)
Our Approach to Acne Management
Every child’s skin is different, and acne care should be too. During your appointment, our providers:
- Evaluate the skin to determine acne type and severity.
- Discuss your child’s lifestyle and skincare routine.
- Create a customized treatment plan that may include:
- Gentle, pediatric-friendly cleansers and moisturizers
- Prescription topical or oral medications (if needed)
- Acne-safe sunscreen and product recommendations
- Tips for preventing future breakouts and reducing scarring
We focus on safe, effective treatments that fit your child’s skin type and developmental needs — without harsh products or unrealistic expectations.
When to See a Pediatrician for Acne
You don’t have to wait until acne becomes severe. Schedule an acne consultation if your child or teen:
- Has frequent breakouts that don’t improve with over-the-counter products
- Experiences painful cystic acne or scarring
- Feels embarrassed, anxious, or withdrawn due to acne
- Needs guidance on proper skincare routines
Early treatment can prevent scars and build confidence during these important years.
Schedule an Acne Consultation
Healthy skin starts with expert care.
📞 Call 781 235 9737 to schedule a pediatric acne management visit with one of our providers.
Our caring team at UPA is here to help your child achieve clearer skin — and the confidence that comes with it.
Why Families Choose Universal Pediatric Associates
- Board-certified pediatricians experienced in skin health
- Gentle, effective, and age-appropriate acne treatments
- Education for teens on skincare, hygiene, and self-confidence
- Convenient appointments and follow-up support
Featured in Boston Magazine as a Top Doctor since 2016
FAQ About Acne Management:
Q:
How to get rid of acne scars?
A:
- Clean your face twice a day to remove impurities and excess oil. A non-comedogenic moisturizer helps to keep the skin hydrated.
- Be careful in the summer. Sun exposure darkens scars and slows their healing. Use sunscreen daily.
- Some natural ingredients reduce acne scars. Coconut oil moisturizes and promotes skin repair. Honey reduces redness. Aloe vera soothes irritation and promotes healing. Apple cider vinegar reduces inflammation. Lemon juice lightens age spots.
- Once or twice a week, gentle exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and stimulates new cell growth.
- Provide regular skin care and a healthy lifestyle, and remember every person should consult a healthcare provider to ensure they don’t make things worse and the treatment is safe and effective.
Q:
What are the main causes of acne?
A:
Hair follicles become clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria, causing acne to often appear on the face, chest, and back.
Hormonal changes, excess sebum production, bacterial buildup, genetic factors, and heredity sometimes cause acne. Stress, poor skin care, and a bad diet are also dangerous for your skin.
Q:
What is the most effective acne scar treatment?
A:
- Chemical peels remove the damaged top layer of skin and stimulate new cell growth. Dermabrasion or microdermabrasion exfoliates the deeper layers of skin.
- Laser therapy stimulates collagen production. It reduces scars and evens out skin tone.
- Filler therapy uses hyaluronic acid or collagen to fill deep scars.
- Steroid injections reduce inflammation in raised scars.
- Microneedling creates tiny punctures to trigger natural collagen regeneration.
Q:
What causes baby acne? How to manage it safely?
A:
Maternal hormones transferred to the baby before birth can cause this condition. Sometimes skin irritation occurs from saliva, milk, or rough tissues. Immature pores can also be a cause. Acne in infants usually resolves on its own within a few weeks or months. Gently cleanse your baby’s face with warm water once a day.
Do not use greasy lotions or acne treatments intended for adults. Never squeeze or pick at pimples. If acne persists for over three months and becomes inflamed, consult a pediatrician or dermatologist.
Q:
What acne treatments are safe for children?
A:
Treat acne carefully. Safe options include gentle cleansers and oil-free moisturizers for sensitive skin. A specialist may prescribe topical treatments with low benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid concentrations. Wash the baby’s skin twice a day and avoid harsh scrubbing. Do not use strong acne treatments, chemical peels, or retinoids. Every child’s skin is unique. Our specialists will take care of your child. Make an appointment.
Dr. Milana Stavitsky
Top Doctor by Boston Magazine since 2016 Born in Russia, Dr. Milana Stavitsky graduated from St. Petersburg Medical Pediatric Academy where she received her undergraduate degree and MD.
Dr. Rose Mele
Dr. Rose Mele is a native of Watertown, Massachusetts and attended Brandeis where she graduated with honors.