Skin Care: Skin Disorders

Skin is the body’s largest organ, and it’s constantly exposed to the world. That means it can develop different conditions. Some are temporary, and some long-term.

For teenagers, acne is by far the most common, but it’s not the only skin disorder worth knowing about.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most frequent ones, what causes them, and how they show up: Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis, Rosacea, and Skin Infections.

Acne: The Most Common Teen Skin Disorder

  • Key Point: Acne is normal! It’s not caused by “dirty skin.”
  • Cause: Hormones during puberty make oil glands more active. Extra oil mixes with dead skin cells and clogs pores. Bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) grow inside, leading to inflammation.
  • Symptoms: Whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, or cysts.
  • Who Gets It: About 8 in 10 teens experience acne. Acne is common for anyone between the ages 11–30.
  • Triggers: Stress, certain medications, and sometimes diet (like high-sugar foods).

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

  • Cause: A weak skin barrier lets moisture escape and irritants enter. Genetics and immune system sensitivity play a role.
  • Symptoms: Dry, itchy patches that flare up with soaps, fabrics, allergens, or stress.
  • Who Gets It: Often starts in childhood but can continue into teen years.
  • Triggers: Irritants (like harsh soaps), allergens, and stress.

Psoriasis

  • Cause: An autoimmune condition where the immune system speeds up skin cell growth.
  • Symptoms: Thick, scaly patches on elbows, knees, scalp, or trunk.
  • Who Gets It: Can affect teens and adults. It often runs in families.
  • Triggers: Stress, infections, cold weather, and certain medications.

Rosacea

  • Cause: Exact cause unknown, but linked to genetics and immune sensitivity.
  • Symptoms: Facial redness, visible blood vessels, and acne-like bumps.
  • Who Gets It: More common in adults over 30, but can affect younger people.
  • Triggers: Hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, and sun exposure.

Skin Infections

  • Cause: Germs (bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites) entering through cuts or weakened skin.
  • Symptoms: Redness, swelling, itching, or sores depending on the type.
  • Who Gets It: Anyone, especially if skin is broken or immune system is weakened.
  • Triggers: Cuts, scrapes, poor hygiene, or close contact with infected people.

Key Takeaways for Teens

  • Acne is the most common skin disorder for your age group, but it’s not the only one.
  • Skin problems can come from oil, genetics, immune system issues, or infections.
  • Healthy habits (gentle cleansing, balanced diet, stress management) help, but sometimes professional care is needed.
  • If skin problems are painful, spreading, or affecting confidence, a dermatologist can help.


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Disclaimer: The information published on The Badge Archive is built from the references listed below. These sources demonstrate that our content is grounded in facts and research, not opinion or speculation. Readers may consult them directly when looking for additional material.

  • American Academy of Dermatology. “Acne: Who Gets and Causes.” AAD, http://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/causes/acne-causes. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
  • Cleveland Clinic. “Acne: Causes & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, 1 Sept. 2020, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12233-acne. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
  • Cleveland Clinic. “Eczema in Adults and Children.” Cleveland Clinic, 25 Oct. 2022, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9998-eczema. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
  • Cleveland Clinic. “Rosacea: Symptoms, Causes, Triggers & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 12 Apr. 2023, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12174-rosacea. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
  • Medline Plus. “Skin Infections.” Medlineplus.gov, 2024, medlineplus.gov/skininfections.html. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
  • Mayo Clinic. “Acne – Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 20 July 2024, http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/symptoms-causes/syc-20368047. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
  • Mayo Clinic. “Psoriasis – Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 8 Oct. 2022, http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.