Adolescence or teenage is the period following the onset of puberty during which a young person develops from a child into an adult, which can be varying from 10 – 19 years generally. It is characterized by many changes in morphology and appearance of the body, i.e. biological maturation, changes in the psyche – development of personality (psychological maturation), in the attitude towards one’s own and the opposite sex (psychosexual maturation), and in the social role (social maturation). So many dermatological changes and conditions can be seen during this period. Dermatological problems of adolescents age are mainly related to fluctuations in hormone levels, mainly androgens. They include acne, hair problems and excessive sweating, oily skin, tinea infections, pityriasis rosea, hair fall, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis etc. We can discuss a few of them.
- Acne vulgaris
Acne vulgaris is the most frequently diagnosed dermatosis in the adolescent age group. In 95%, lesions are present on the face and on the upper parts of the trunk, occasionally on other parts of the body and due to this location and the chronic nature of the disease, it many times poses a serious psychological problem for a patient.
Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting seborrheic areas (mainly: chest, face, back), characterized by the presence of comedones, papular eruptions, pustular eruptions, purulent cysts, and scars. Studies are showing that the excessive production of sebum and higher incident of acne are related with presence of high androgens. Measures to control the sebum production and bacterial colonisation and proper medications for the underlying cause can relieve the symptoms.
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
It is characterised by excessive production of sweat, resulting from high activity of sweat glands. These glands are localised in almost all areas of the body surface but on the hands, feet, armpits and around the groin they are found at the highest density. Eccrine is a type of sweat gland which is mostly responsible for hyperhidrosis, and its secretion is stimulated primarily by heat and emotional stress. During puberty, excessive sweating can have an emotional basis, but the main reason may be the hormonal disturbances characteristic of this period. Hyperhidrosis can also accompany an improper diet consisting of warm and hot meals and drinks.
- Tinea infections
Tinea infections are caused by fungus. Fungi on the skin, hair, and nail bed are called dermatophytes. Tinea infections on the scalp (Tinea capitis), arms, legs (T corporis), feet (T pedis/ Athlete’s foot), and inner thighs, buttocks, groin (T cruris), Fingernails ( T unguium) and is characterized by ring-shaped, red, scaly patches with clearing centre. Tinea versicolor is a common fungal skin infection caused by a type of yeast usually seen in teens and young adults characterised by round and oval-shaped patches on the skin, especially on the chest, back, and upper arms. Some tips to prevent the infection are,
- Keep your skin clean and dry.
- Wear shoes that allow air to circulate freely around your feet.
- Don’t walk barefoot in areas like locker rooms or public showers.
- Clip your fingernails and toenails short and keep them clean.
- Change your socks and underwear at least once a day.
- Don’t share clothing, towels, sheets, or other personal items with someone who has ringworm.
- Wash your hands with soap and running water after playing with pets.
- Pityriasis rosea
It is a temporary harmless skin condition common in teens characterised by the pink or grey scaly skin rash that can last for 4 to 8 weeks to months. The rash usually starts with one big patch on the chest, abdomen, thighs, or back that’s often mistaken for ringworm. As the rash spreads, the original patch (Herald /mother patch) is joined by several smaller spots (Daughter spots) that spread out across the torso. In some cases, the spots spread to the arms and legs (but it usually doesn’t appear on the palms or soles). The spots can be slightly itchy. These small patches are usually oval shaped and often form a pattern on the back that looks like a Christmas tree. Pityriasis rosea is not contagious. When pityriasis rosea does need treatment, it’s usually just to control the itching. In some cases, just getting a moderate amount of sunlight can help improve the rash and the itching.
- Hair loss
Hair loss in teens is not uncommon, which is frustrating and causes several self-doubts. It can occur suddenly, and it is difficult to find out the root cause. Hormonal disorders (PCOS in teenage girls, thyroid conditions), some medications like antidepressants, acne medication, and autoimmune factors etc may be the cause. Correction of the underlying cause and taking the proper balanced diet, reducing stress can help to relieve the symptoms.
What to do?
Some healthy changes in lifestyle can minimise the risks of teenage skin problems.
- Regular massage with oil (Coconut oil/ gingelly oil) once a week. This keeps your skin soft and improves subcutaneous blood circulation.
- Use minimal makeup and avoid chemical skin care products.
- Avoid hot showers and harsh soaps that dry out your skin.
- Get good sleep and reduce mental stress. This helps your skin to repair.
- A wholesome Ayurveda recommended diet is the key to healthy skin. They include vitamins along with zinc, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids and proteins in your daily diet. Consume green vegetables, fruits, and seafood for glowing skin. Avoid processed foods and sugary items that can contribute to skin inflammation and acne. Take plenty of water and keep hydrated.
- Use regular scrub with sugar and honey generally to avoid accumulating dirt in facial skin.
- Choose some herbal packs according to the doshas of our skin. E.g., In dry skin Yashtimadhu, raw ghee, Triphala, honey, coconut oil, and sesame oil. In oily skin, we can choose rose water, Triphala, turmeric, aloe vera, sandalwood etc. In normal and sensitive skin choose aloe vera, manjishta, and neem-like drugs. Use Triphala or fenugreek powder to wash your hair regularly.
- Consult a doctor for the proper care and medication.
When one achieves puberty, the surge of pubertal hormones affects sebum production. The well-hydrated kapha dominant young tender skin now gets affected by pitta (hormones), triggering oiliness and inflammations. This combination of Kapha-Pitta dosha at puberty, calls for special skincare measures. The adolescent period is a special and precious period. If we are providing extra care in their physical, mental, and social development, it will be a beautiful period in their life.
