The body · For ages 13–17
Why am I getting more body hair, spots or other physical changes?
During puberty, the body produces more hormones. These affect the skin, hair, sweat, breasts, body shape and menstruation, among other things.
What happens?
The body changes during puberty
Puberty is the period when the body develops from childhood into adulthood. The body makes more of several hormones, including oestrogen and testosterone.
This may lead to spots, oilier skin and hair, increased sweating, more body hair, breast development and other changes. Bodies develop at different speeds, and not everyone notices the same changes to the same extent.
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Spots are common during puberty. If they are painful, cause scars or affect you a lot, treatment is available.
Hormonal changes can increase oil production, blocking pores and causing inflammation. Spots do not mean your skin is dirty. Wash gently and avoid squeezing spots or trying several strong products at the same time.
A pharmacist can help with mild symptoms. Treatment may take several weeks to show results, so make a plan for use and follow-up. Book a doctor's appointment for painful deep spots, scarring or significant distress. Both non-prescription and prescription treatments are available.
More body hair is a normal part of puberty. The amount varies a great deal.
Hormones affect how coarse and visible body hair becomes. Genetics and hair type also matter. Hair on your arms, legs, tummy or upper lip may be ordinary variation, and you can decide whether you want to keep it.
A rapid, clear change along with other symptoms may be assessed by a doctor. Body hair and spots alone are not enough to diagnose a hormonal condition in teenagers.
Puberty does not follow the same timetable for everyone. If you are worried about your development, you can speak with a school nurse or doctor.
Puberty involves several changes over many years. Two people the same age may be at different stages, and breasts may grow unevenly. Being earlier or later than your friends does not by itself mean you are ill.
If you are worried, a school nurse or GP can look at your development over time. Also ask for support if comparisons or comments make it difficult to feel comfortable in your body.
What can you do now?
Your body does not have to look like your friends' bodies to be developing normally. Ask for advice if a change worries you.
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