Struggling With Acne?

What is Acne?

Acne (Acne vulgaris) is one of the more common skin problems. It is an inflammatory skin condition that typically affects adolescents and young adults.Typically, it begins during puberty when the sebaceous glands connected to the hair follicles secrete sebum, an oily semi-fluid substance. Acne is non deadly but can leave scars.

Types of Acne

There are various types of acne which include Blackheads (open comedones), Whiteheads (closed comedones), pimples, cysts and nodules.

Blackheads – visible on the skin surface, black.

Whiteheads – small and remain under the skin.

Cysts- they are painful, fluid filled sacks that can cause scarring on the surface of the skin.

Causes of Acne.

Acne occurs when the hair follicles and pores become clogged. Clogging can occur as a result of any of the following:

•    Heredity; Heredity determines the size and activity of the sebaceous gland. The larger and more active the gland is, the higher the chance of developing acne.

•    Menstruation;  the onset of a woman’s period could also trigger acne. The acne mostly lasts the same number of days as the woman has her period.

•    Hormones; During puberty the body produces an hormone that increases sebum production and causes the sebaceous glands to enlarge. This hormone is androgen based, which in found more in men, making men more acne prone.

•    Diet; Foods rich in vitamin A are said to help reduce Acne. However, contrary to popular belief, chocolate and cola do not increase acne.

•    Bacteria – According to research the severity of acne depend on the strain of bacteria. Normal skin bacteria can act upon sebum to produce irritating substances, resulting in inflammation. Not all strains of bacteria cause acne, one strain is in fact responsible for keeping the face pimple free.

Helpful Tips for Self-care:

•    Washing the face 2-3 times daily with a mild soap for people with few blackheads or pimples. However, overly washing the face could worsen the acne.

•    Shampooing hair regularly to prevent hair from being oily and clogging the pores.

•    Avoid hair and cosmetic products that are comodogenic (pore clogging) and go for products that are water based and oil free.

•    Do not wear tight fitted clothes or gear especially if one has acne around back, chest, shoulders and neck, let the skin breathe.

•    Do not pick or squeeze blackheads, whiteheads or pimples, because this can cause infection, increased inflammation and scarring.

In cases of mild acne, over the counter medications such as gel, pads, creams and lotions applied to the skin can be effective for clearing out the acne. Particularly products that contain salicylic acid, Retin-A, Sulfur, Azelaic Acid among others.

While in cases of moderate to severe acne, consulting a dermatologist or skin specialist is the recommended route. Possible treatments options include Oral antibiotics, topical antimicrobials and corticosteroid injection.

Have no fear, when properly managed, acne can be cured, leaving you with glowing and healthy skin.