A workshop titled "Puberty isn't scary: understanding yourself for greater confidence" was held at Yen Bai B Secondary School in Hanoi on 31/3. The workshop aimed to help students understand themselves, learn skincare, manage emotions, and build confidence. The program also introduced the VnExpress 25-year bookshelf and officially handed over a new library to the school.

Pharmacist Pham Van Hoang Duong from EUPC Group speaks with students at Yen Bai B Secondary School. Photo: EUPC Group

Pharmacist Pham Van Hoang Duong from EUPC Group and First Runner-up Duc Quang accompanied the program. The workshop was designed as an open discussion, allowing students to ask questions about acne, staying up late, changes in appearance, emotions, and self-confidence. A "True or False" mini-game also featured common questions, such as the effectiveness of frequent face washing and how late nights affect skin. This helped students grasp basic skincare principles.

Skincare and acne were among the most pressing concerns for many students. Pharmacist Hoang Duong explained that hormonal changes cause skin to produce more oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Acne is common and does not imply poor hygiene. He also emphasized that having acne is not a source of shame; children should discuss it with their families to seek medical advice if breakouts persist.

According to pharmacist Duong, to prevent puberty acne, children should avoid several habits: staying up late, stress, touching their face, self-squeezing pimples, using unsuitable products, and not keeping face towels, masks, or bangs clean. He added that skincare does not need to be complex; it simply requires consistency and correct methods. Duong also advised students to get enough sleep and drink sufficient water for healthy skin.

Students with pharmacist Pham Van Hoang Duong at the school's new library. Photo: EUPC Group

Regarding concerns about appearance, external comments, and emotional changes, First Runner-up Duc Quang and pharmacist Duong explained these are normal psychological and physiological developments. They emphasized that children must learn to identify their emotions and find a trusted person to share them with, rather than keeping them hidden.

After the event, many students shared that the workshop avoided heavy theoretical discussions, instead adopting an open conversational format. This allowed them to ask questions about familiar aspects of puberty.

First Runner-up Duc Quang presents gifts to students who answered questions. Photo: VnExpress Team 23

"Puberty isn't scary. It's a journey of growth where students need to learn to understand, care for, and be patient with themselves," Duong stated.

EUPC Group operates in the pharmaceutical cosmetics sector, distributing European brands like Ziaja and Farmona in Vietnam. The company also supports and implements numerous school health education and consulting activities. A notable example is its school tour series in 2025 across TP HCM and Hanoi, which engaged nearly 6,000 students.

Van Ha