At the 2026 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting, board-certified dermatologist Dawn Eichenfield, MD, FAAD, PhD called for early diagnosis and individualized treatment for pediatric acne and rosacea. Teens with early acne should ask a dermatologist which cleanser, retinoid, benzoyl peroxide, moisturizer and sunscreen fit their skin type and severity. Pediatric acne means acne in children, preadolescents and teens.
According to an American Academy of Dermatology press release, the meeting was held March 27-31, 2026 in Denver as the year's largest U.S. dermatology gathering meeting highlights. Eichenfield discussed how pediatric disease differs from adult disease, with distinct features and psychosocial impact.
Medical information disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a physician or other qualified health professional about symptoms, medications, tests, or treatment decisions.
Table of Contents
- Why early acne needs its own approach
- What does an acne-friendly routine include?
- Where do retinoids and benzoyl peroxide fit?
- Which routine questions should teens ask?
Why early acne needs its own approach
Preadolescents and teens develop acne patterns that do not always match adult acne. Triggers, sensitive skin, growth and hormones shape how breakouts start and spread. Social stress during school years can add pressure to get care right early.
Eichenfield's AAD 2026 message was that one-size-fits-all care does not fit this group. Early diagnosis helps match treatment to age, severity and skin response. Individual choice then guides products and prescription options.
What does an acne-friendly routine include?
The American Academy of Dermatology's Acne Resource Center states clearer skin requires two elements: acne-friendly skin care plus the right treatment for each type of blemish present acne care basics. Routine alone rarely clears moderate acne.
Treatment alone can irritate skin without gentle support. Dermatologists advise teens to keep daily care simple and non-clogging, according to the American Medical Association what doctors want patients to know. Useful steps include:.
- wash once or twice daily with a gentle cleanser without harsh soaps
- use an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer that will not clog pores
- apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, or a moisturizer-sunscreen combination
- avoid picking, harsh scrubs and heavy oils that worsen blockage
Where do retinoids and benzoyl peroxide fit?
Updated AAD acne guidelines strongly recommend topical benzoyl peroxide to reduce acne bacteria and topical retinoids to unclog pores, according to the Academy updated management guidelines. Retinoids in the guidance include adapalene, tretinoin, tazarotene and trifarotene. A dermatologist selects strength and vehicle by skin type, site and severity.
Consistent use over weeks matters more than rapid spot treatment. Fixed-dose combinations carry the summed side effects of each agent. Evidence for combinations with benzoyl peroxide is moderate, so families should review benefits and irritation risk together.
Which routine questions should teens ask?
Bring current products to the visit, including cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, makeup and hair products. Ask which formula to keep, which to stop and how to layer prescription and nonprescription steps. Ask how often to use benzoyl peroxide and retinoid, and how to limit dryness.
Also ask what to watch for next. Seek prompt care for painful, cystic or scarring lesions. Early follow-up allows dose, vehicle or treatment changes before marks become lasting.
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