Acne and Skin Breakouts: When to Seek Help

An independent educational resource prepared by Mark M. Simonian, MD, FAAP

Sources checked: August 8, 2026     |     Medical review completed: August 8, 2026

This page is for general education only and does not replace individualized medical advice. This resource does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. For questions about your own child, contact your child's current healthcare professional.

Magnolia Pediatrics, Valley Children's Healthcare

2497 E. Herndon Avenue, Suite 101, Clovis, CA 93611     |     559-538-3070

Acne is common in preteens and teens and is not caused by poor hygiene. A simple, consistent routine can help, but painful deep acne, scarring, distress, or infection needs professional care.

Urgent Warning Signs - Check This First

Most acne is not an emergency. Spreading infection or a child who looks ill needs prompt care.

CALL 911 NOW

  • Severe allergic reaction after a skin product with trouble breathing or swallowing, lip or tongue swelling, collapse, or blue or gray color

GET URGENT MEDICAL CARE NOW

  • Spreading red, hot, painful skin with fever, red streaks, marked swelling, or a child who looks very ill

  • Severe facial swelling involving the eye, or pain with eye movement or vision changes

CONTACT YOUR CHILD'S HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL TODAY

  • Large tender lumps, draining pus, painful cysts or nodules, scarring, or acne causing significant embarrassment, anxiety, or low mood

  • A breakout that is worsening despite a consistent over-the-counter routine, a rash or swelling from a product, or acne starting after 6 weeks of age and before puberty

Simple Skin Care

  • Wash gently up to twice daily and after sweating. Do not scrub, use harsh exfoliants, or pick or squeeze pimples

  • Choose non-comedogenic, fragrance-free moisturizer, sunscreen, makeup, and hair products when possible

  • Introduce one product at a time and follow product instructions. Stop a product if it causes significant burning, swelling, or rash

  • Acne treatment takes time. Give a consistent routine about 6 to 8 weeks unless irritation or worsening occurs

Avoid Common Triggers

  • Do not use online skin-care trends, concentrated acids, retinol products, or multiple active products without age-appropriate professional guidance

  • Avoid oily hair and skin products that contact the face, and clean sports equipment that touches the skin

  • Do not use another person’s prescription acne medicine or take vitamin A supplements for acne without clinician guidance

Getting Help

A clinician can determine whether the bumps are acne or another skin condition and can recommend treatment based on age, skin sensitivity, severity, risk of scarring, and emotional effects. Early help can reduce scars and distress.

Related Guides

  • Rashes and Skin: When to Seek Care

  • Sun Safety and Sunburn: When to Seek Care

  • Allergic Reactions, Hives, and Swelling: When to Seek Care

Sources and Medical Review

  • HealthyChildren.org (AAP), What Makes Teen Acne Worse? https://www.healthychildren.org/English/tips-tools/ask-the-pediatrician/Pages/What-makes-teen-acne-worse.aspx

  • American Academy of Dermatology, 10 Skin Care Habits That Can Worsen Acne https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/skin-care/habits-stop

  • American Academy of Dermatology, Treating Acne: Is It Time to See a Dermatologist? https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/DIY/when-derm

  • HealthyChildren.org (AAP), Acne Symptom Checker https://www.healthychildren.org/English/tips-tools/Symptom-Checker/IFrame/Pages/symptomviewer.aspx?symptom=Acne