Teen Puberty – Explore the Changes

Explore the Changes

Explore all about your changing mind & body during Puberty. Here you can find reliable
information on what to expect and get tips on navigating all of the physical and mental
changes you’re experiencing and more! The changes won’t wait so let’s get exploring!

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Got Acne?

Acne

Written by Jennifer Choi, M.D.

Acne are bumps formed on the top of the skin. These bumps are often referred to as pimples, zits, whiteheads, and blackheads and are usually caused when the pores of the skin are clogged by dead skin cells, bacteria, and sebum. Pimples (acne) can be found on any part of the body and are common on the faces of young people during puberty. Pimples can also occur during adulthood.

Some young people are more concerned about these bumps than others. Whether you are concerned or not, there are healthy habits a person can follow to help keep their skin healthy.

Tips for Healthy Skin
  • Wash your face upon waking up, after exercising and doing sports, and before going to bed. Some people choose to use a washcloth.
  • Try not to touch your face with your hands during the day.
  • Try not to pick or pop pimples, especially the ones that are deep in the skin.
  • Check out over-the-counter products found at a local drugstore. These are often applied to the surface of the skin after your face is washed (yet test any product overnight on your forearm first).
  • Talk with a medical professional or dermatologist if you want additional help.
  • Remember that truly healthy skin comes from within. Hydrate your body every day with at least 8 glasses of water per day.
  • Keep in mind that a healthy diet will also help you look and feel your best. A super-skin-saving diet minimizes saturated fats and high glycemic foods. Dairy and gluten can also trigger acne for some people. Avoid overeating dairy and sugar products- these can spike our hormones sometimes causing more oils.
  • Stay aware of how your body feels after consuming certain foods and make sure to get enough nutrient packed fruits and vegetables that your skin needs to repair and renew.

To learn more about acne and learn tips on how to manage it, visit the Skin Care & Acne page in BLOOM’s Healthy Body section.

 

Young friends on thrilling roller coaster ride
New Moods & Emotions

Managing your Emotions & Moods

Written by Lori Reichel, Ph.D.

  |  Reviewed by Hina J. Talib, MD

There are many feelings a young person may experience during puberty. They include happy, sad, nervous, angry, and excited, as well as romantic or sexual feelings. Mood swings, or quick changes in feelings, are also common because of the release of hormones that create these pubertal changes. Trying to do too much or not getting enough sleep can also increase this moodiness.

Managing feelings, including unpleasant ones, requires patience and “tools” that allow a person to understand their feelings, why they are having them, and how to best cope.

Tips for managing your feelings
  • Note your feelings. To do this, sit still for a moment to recognize the feelings you are having.
  • Remember all of us experience a range of feelings. Although we often want to feel those positive feelings, like happiness and excitement, or calmness and peace, other feelings will also be felt. This is part of living and experiencing the “ups and downs” of things.
  • Participate in an activity that brings you JOY! This can be reading a favorite book, playing or listening to music (including an instrument), writing in a journal, taking a fitness walk, playing sports, coloring, or another activity that usually reminds you of who you are.
  • Talk to a trusted person, especially when you are feeling sad or angry.
  • Attempt to use “I feel” statements to tell… or warn others if you are not feeling your usual self. For example: “I feel annoyed right now.”
  • If feeling down or depressed for more than a day or so, or having trouble sleeping (too much or too little), definitely talk with a trusted adult. A trusted adult can be a parent, guardian, teacher, guidance counselor, coach or another trusted person in your life.
  • Ask a trusted adult to check in with you regularly to ask how you are feeling.
  • Again, remember you are important! There is a reason you are on this planet– so try to recognize your feelings, find healthy ways to cope with unpleasant feelings, and love yourself!

For more information on navigating these emotional changes, visit BLOOM’s Exploring Emotions page.

 

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Crushes

Crushes & Attraction