teenage spots

[Twentyfour24]

my 13 year old has just started to get a few spots on her forehead and chin which is really upsetting her. Has anyone tried anything that works?

She has also started getting migraines, which oddly seem to happen when she gets over excited either about exams or something good like a party. Has anyone else experienced this?

If you want to get something over the counter to try to prevent spots, then benzoyl peroxide is the best option - ask the pharmacist. It can be mildly irritant to the skin if she has fair or sensitive skin, and can discolour clothing, but is effective for mild acne. If she is getting acne on her forehead it really is best to try to keep her hair off her forehead, even though she may be tempted to want to use it to hide her spots. And off course, don't keep touching them! If she is getting more severe acne she should see her GP.

Facewashes didn't work in our house as they didn't like the hassle of using them. (But then I do have boys!)
The pots of treatment wipes by Clearasil are good: 2 strengths: the Stayclear are best for first spots on young skin, while the Ultra are for more problem skin. My DSs used them in their bedrooms, so didn't have to queue for the bathroom!
Basically, keeping skin clean and not allowing the oil to build up so bacteria can get trapped in the pores keeps them under control.
Having said that, spots are all part of growing up and a fringe can cover the ones on her forehead!
Get her friends around for a sleepover, and see what face / spot treatments they bring in their sponge bags. What her friends use, she'll be happy to try too.
Good luck!

Thank you - I've been trying to avoid anything too harsh - i've read where some can take too much oil from the skin so it just produces more. I had dreadful spots for years which stopped me going out as a teenager so I guess I feel a bit guilty that she's probably got my skin!

Have you tried Freederm yet? It can be bought over the counter for about £8 or so and has really made a difference to my 14 year old DS's spotty neck and back.

I've also started changing his pillowcase every morning rather than weekly with the rest of his bedding - not sure if that has helped as well....