National Healthy Skin Month: Managing Adolescent and Young Adult Patients
Featuring Nicholas Brownstone, MD |
Temple University Hospital
Department of Dermatology
Philadelphia, PA
For National Healthy Skin Month, we’re spotlighting skin health practices across all stages of life. In this segment, Dr Nicholas Brownstone shares his expertise on managing patients in the adolescent and young adult demographic—a pivotal stage where dermatologists must consider not only physical health but also mental well-being.
Understanding the adolescent perspective
Dr Brownstone highlights that skin changes throughout life, as do our psychology and worldview. These shifts are particularly pronounced during adolescence, a time when many patients first develop social anxieties tied to their appearance.
At this stage, patients are still forming their sense of identity, and even minor skin issues can feel monumental. Dermatologists must recognize the unique emotional weight that acne carries for this group and avoid dismissing their concerns—a practice Dr Brownstone refers to as “empathetic failure.”
The psychological impact of acne
According to Dr Brownstone, adolescence is often the life stage where acne has the greatest psychological impact. He emphasizes that even a single pimple can feel like “the end of the world” for these patients. This perspective supports the importance of taking their concerns seriously and tailoring treatment approaches to meet their emotional as well as physical needs.
Pearls for treating acne in adolescents
Dr Brownstone advises dermatologists to approach acne treatment in adolescents differently than in pediatric or adult patients. Key considerations include:
- Empathy first: Understanding the adolescent perspective and avoiding dismissive responses that could alienate patients
- Individualized treatment: Acknowledging that not all acne cases are equal and adjusting treatment plans accordingly
- Aggressive treatment when needed: Dr Brownstone suggests that even one pimple may justify aggressive treatment options, including isotretinoin, if the acne is perceived as life-ruining by the patient.
Key takeaways for dermatologists
As dermatologists, it’s crucial to consider both the physical and emotional impacts of acne on adolescent patients. Dr Brownstone encourages his colleagues to view this demographic through a compassionate lens, understanding their unique challenges and tailoring care to meet their needs effectively.
By fostering empathy and delivering personalized care, dermatologists can make a profound difference in the lives of their adolescent patients, helping them navigate this critical stage with confidence and better skin health.
Watch Part 1 here for expert insights on caring for dermatology's youngest patients, Part 3 here for strategies to optimize skin health in adults and middle-aged patients, and Part 4 here for guidance on caring for the older adult patient population—all for National Healthy Skin Month!
More from this series
Generalized Pustular Psoriasis (GPP)
Shifting the Paradigm: Chronic Management of Generalized Pustular Psoriasis
Featuring Aaron Farberg, MD | Neal Bhatia, MD
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic Dermatitis Treatment in Skin of Color: Navigating Systemic Therapies and Addressing Unique Challenges
Featuring James Del Rosso, DO | Amy McMichael, MD
Atopic Dermatitis
Treating Atopic Dermatitis Early: Can We Impact the Atopic March?
Featuring Lisa Swanson, MD | James Del Rosso, DO
Acne
Advances in Acne Treatment: 2024 Highlights and What to Watch for in 2025
Featuring John Barbieri, MD, MBA, FAAD
Related CME
![DermInsider - A Virtual Grand Rounds Series Session 1: March 12, 2025](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fd18uhdhjoz8by6.cloudfront.net%2FVGR_Derm_Insider_Website_Tile_3_12_40505398d7.png&w=3840&q=75)
![2024 Virtual Grand Rounds Session 15: November 13, 2024 - What Did 2024 Bring to the Table in Dermatology? Best of FC24 Clinical Review](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fd18uhdhjoz8by6.cloudfront.net%2FVGR_24_375_x_211_Website_Tile_v03_cfbf80eeb0.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
![2024 Virtual Grand Rounds Session 14: November 6, 2024 - Highlights from Fall Clinical 2024: Your Questions Answered](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fd18uhdhjoz8by6.cloudfront.net%2FVGR_24_375_x_211_Website_Tile_v03_cfbf80eeb0.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Related Media
Powered by Polaris TM![National Healthy Skin Month: Expert Strategies for Optimizing Skin Health in Middle-Aged Adults](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimage.mux.com%2FXS6rorf01Pgg00GQ00NhlaocckLNcue2gKwWDO3CY017zdQ%2Fthumbnail.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Dermatology
National Healthy Skin Month: Expert Strategies for Optimizing Skin Health in Middle-Aged AdultsVideo
Gabriela Maloney
![National Healthy Skin Month: Maximizing Skin Health for Older Adults](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimage.mux.com%2FFuyZKFeTMR8PLVJ4NNDWaT26301RIrhC5joD3kh7o6fM%2Fthumbnail.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Daniel C. Butler
![National Healthy Skin Month: Supporting Healthy Skin in Babies](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimage.mux.com%2FVyMzbBqi7cezwe02MLFlr174doOSVdnXtS9AyDxoS5Ws%2Fthumbnail.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Lisa A. Swanson
![Dermatologist's Guide to Winter Skin Care: Practical Tips to Share With Patients](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimage.mux.com%2FN6Q00G00pz1IpG00AEKviMjliMXEwCkU8W8lrxp3fmQPRI%2Fthumbnail.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Charlie Dunn