Simple introduction
Acne is also popular among all of us as zits and pimples. There is no one who has not heard about all those words out there. For many, it is the thing jokes are made up from since it becomes the matter of criticism and comments. For some, it could a minor convenience that outgrows over the times. To some though, the pimples or acnes are much more than a minor botheration since they consider this as a serious problem since it is the matter that not only physically damages, but also alters mentally.
Definition
What is Acne then? Acne is troublesome problem normally associated with teenagers. Acne comes out when follicles, or pores in the skin are choked up. Oil that generally escapes from the skin's surface then gets trapped, where bacteria begin to grow and acne appears.
Some types and causes of acne
There are different types of acne ranging from mild problems like whiteheads & blackheads to quite a serious and potentially disfiguring case such as Acne conglobata. Mild cases are normally easy to treat, while more severe cases might require more aggressive therapy for controlling.
There is no one definitive cause of acne discovered till date. However, there are several factors said to be playing a part. The most important factor is said to be increased levels of androgens, one of the male sexual hormones, which increase in males and females during puberty. Another factor believed to be important is the heredity, where the genes those cause the development of acne are passed on from parent(s) to their progenies. Certain drugs may also contribute, as well as certain cosmetic products, which could potentially change the cellular structure in the follicle, causing the follicle sticking together. Contrary to popular belief, eating chocolate or greasy foods might not be sole cause for acne to form, though diet is thought helping to prevent of acne is some people.
Glance at treatment for acne
Some of the typical cases of acne generally include OTC (over the counter) products that contain resorcinol benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or sulfur. Such chemicals have proven to be beneficial in the treatment of milder problems of zits. It is advised never picking or squeezing up the zit, pimple or acne, as this increases the risk of getting scarring and spreading of acne. Scrubbing the acne with the help of loofah or any other technique is also not advised since scrubbing itself makes it worse.
There are many treatment methods. The market booms with plenty of pills, lotions, creams and gels to remove acne. However, more severe or resistant acnes may seek treatment by a licensed dermatologist. A dermatologist will prescribe topical treatments such as Retinoids and/or some antibiotics for local application. Oral antibiotics can also be someone’s choice. In sever cases; there could be hormonal treatment like Accutane. Accutane is prescribed as a last resort for the stubborn acnes those have not responded well to any of normal treatments.
Prevention – always better than cure
The prevention of acne is as easy as keeping one’s hands and hairs off the face, as body’s hands and hair contain oils that might contribute and contaminate the pores of the face. Other prevention tip includes reducing of stress from everyday life, exercising regularly, as well as to eat some balanced diet. Warm showers and getting enough sleep might also helpful in preventing of acne. It is also recommended that makeup be used meagerly and be removed completely when not required.
For some people, acne could be a difficult affliction for dealing with, but with the appropriate treatments and lifestyle modifications, it can be managed and also be minimized. Leaving acne untreated might end up in severe cases and they might leave the scars onto the face. In some bad cases, acne can also be filled up with blood and/or pus and that may ooze spoiling the apparels and also the beauty of the face.
Questions to ask about pimples or acne
What kind of treatments will you be recommending?
Would you be prescribing any medicines?
What are the side effects of those medications?
How long do I need to take those pills?
How long it takes to show me effects of healing acne?
Should I need to see some specialist or dermatologist?
