Acne affects a majority of the women today. Though a common occurrence in the pre-teenage years just before the commencement of the menstrual period, acne can also affect the young adults and leave harmful psychological effects in the long-term period. It leaves scars in various parts of the body leading to despair and disappointment.
But how does acne occur? The answer is largely unknown as of now but the mystery lies deep inside our skin. It has been contemplated that acne is caused by an acne bacteria. Our skin contains thousands of sebaceous glands that produce sebum, a natural oil that protects our body from various external agents. Hormones play a vital role by increasing or blocking the production of sebum. Sebum produced by the glands rise up through the pores onto the skin.
When the production is blocked, acne accumulates in the pore causing scars that may be either blackheads or whiteheads. Acne bacteria may grow and develop in these blockages resulting in the formation of inflammatory red abscess also called as ‘Zits’. Some of these abscesses may also burst resulting in the formation of large red lumps called nodules. Since most of the sebaceous glands are located in the face, back or in the middle of the chest, acne appears mostly at these places.
Acne formation can be triggered by the usage of various cosmetics such as pore blocking creams, hair gels and sprays. Sleeping on damp hair or wearing clothing that retain sweat can increase the risk of acne formation.
Acne can be treated by using various therapies and the right type of cosmetics that range from cleaners in mild cases to hormonal pills for treating moderate cases. Facials and exfoliating creams are used to treat acne staining. Dermabrasion and laser treatments are required for removing scars. So, opt for the right treatment in consultation with your physician and dermatologist to treat acne.
Acne Problems and Solutions
Alternative Solutions for Acne Problems
Acne is a universal problem and the solutions for acne problems are as varied as they can get. Many of these solutions claim to work the best; however, it is difficult to shortlist the best one for you. In this article, we will focus on five alternative solutions for acne problems, however, it is always recommended to consult to your doctor before self-administering any treatment for any medical issue.
Clean Your Face Gently
You should not be fooled by advertisements claiming to offer effective products for combating acne. The fact is, even if they work, they can only offer short term relief. The prolonged usage of these products may dry out the skin type so badly that it turns out even more pimple-prone. You should use a gentle cleanser to clean your skin. It is better if you use lukewarm water with the cleanser while washing it.
Maintain a Strict Diet
Scientific studies confirmed that consuming larger amount of foods high in sugar and carbohydrates increase the insulin level in the body. This, consecutively, leads to the formation of excessive oil which then mixed with the dead cells manifest into an acne problem over the skin, especially over the face. So you must limit your carbohydrate and sugar content in your diet. Take a multivitamin if you experience nutritional deficiency in your existing diet.
Use Oral Contraceptives or Birth Control
Androgen hormones are responsible for the production of glandular oils that may lead to the formation of pimples over the face. Recent studies confirmed that birth control pills have the ability to decrease the androgen level in the body; hence it indirectly influences the possibility of getting acne to its minimum. However, one must consult doctor prior taking oral contraceptives as an effective mode of intervention for treating an acne problem.
LASER Solution
Laser solution is used effectively for severe acne problems. It is really difficult to face the world with scars of acne all over the face. It is distressing and frustrating for anyone having acne. Non-ablative laser works nicely without leaving any scars or damage on your skin’s outer layer, known as epidermis, but intervening in the inner layer or dermis instead. However, it is not an easily adaptable solution for everyone due to its expense and potential side effects.
Antibiotics
Since decades, antibiotics are used to treat mild to severe acne problems. It is still a popular choice among the majority of the individuals with an acne problem as well as among doctors and dermatologists. Antibiotics help in reducing the bacterial infection occurring around the hair follicles as well as in managing the bodily chemicals coming out from the white blood cells which result in irritation.
