What can I do about pimples?

If you have started getting pimples and you feel your life is being badly affected, get your mum or dad to take you to a pharmacy. Ask for the cheapest version of a non-soap, oil-free face wash and a 2.5 per cent or 5 per cent benzoyl peroxide pimple cream (ask the pharmacist for advice). Follow the instructions for the pimple cream. If there’s been no sign of improvement after 6 weeks, or the problem is upsetting, or if you and your family are prone to scarring, you need to see your family doctor. Tell your mum or dad to get a ‘referral’ from your family doctor to a skin specialist who will be able to prescribe you the right treatment.

There’s more detailed info on solutions to skin problems such as pimples in the big-sister version of this book, Girl Stuff 13+: Your Full-on Guide to the Teen Years.