BY NELIWE NGUBANE
MBABANE— For some teenagers, the mirror can become an enemy. A few pimples may look harmless to others, but for the person living with acne, they can affect confidence, friendships and even the courage to walk into a classroom. Dermatologist Dr Dumsile Mabundza says acne deserves more attention than simply being labelled “a phase of growing up”.
Speaking on the Eswatini TV Kusile Breakfast Show on September 8, 2026, Dr Mabundza discussed acne, eczema, nutrition and the emotional impact skin conditions can have on young people.
She stressed that acne affects both boys and girls and can become severe enough to cause social withdrawal, particularly among teenagers who may already face bullying at school.
According to Dr Mabundza, parents should not dismiss acne as something children will automatically outgrow. Early and appropriate treatment can help prevent lasting scarring and pigmentation.
She also highlighted lifestyle and dietary factors that may worsen acne in some people. Foods high in sugar and highly processed foods, including chips, fast food, pizza, sweets and fizzy drinks, may contribute to flare-ups, although individual responses can differ.
Beyond acne, Dr Mabundza explained that eczema is another chronic skin condition that can flare up during seasonal changes. Weather conditions can aggravate sensitive skin, making proper skincare particularly important.
She encouraged people to cleanse and moisturise consistently while protecting their skin from the sun. She also cautioned against copying skincare routines promoted by friends or social media personalities, saying products should be selected according to individual skin needs.
The dermatologist further discouraged the use of untested skin-lightening products promising instant results. She warned that some bleaching products can cause permanent pigmentation and damage that may be difficult or impossible to reverse completely.
Dr Mabundza’s advice to viewers was simple: skincare is a process, not a quick fix. Consistency, professional guidance and healthy habits can help people protect both their skin and their confidence.
#AcneAwareness #SkinHealth #TeenageHealth #BeautyAndHealth #EPN
(Courtesy Pic)
