No Need To Stress Over Acne

We thought after high school or college life, acne will just fade away. Now that you are in twenties you still have acne—on your face, back, chest and other parts of your body--bothering since teenage years. Having acne can be beyond your thirties, fourties and even fifties. Don’t lose hope there are many acne treatments to cure and stop acne build-up. If you need help, you can do some research or ask a dermatologist for other options.

The most common causes of acne include the overproduction of oil, dead skin irritating hair follicles and accumulation of bacteria. The buildup of oil and dead skin within the hair follicles creates a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.

Some myths about acne perpetuate, such as the notion that chocolate and greasy foods lead to acne. While it’s definitely better to not gorge on pepperoni pizza and Hershey bars, you can rest assured that indulging isn’t going to result in eruptions on your face the next day.

There is some scientific correlation between diet and acne. According to the Mayo Clinic, dairy products and carbohydrate-rich food can lead to the formation of acne.

Another myth in which many of us seek refuge is that acne is caused by stress. We cling to the hope that when life slows down and things are no longer hectic, our skin will calm down too. Unfortunately, that’s not entirely the case. Lisa Garner, a clinical professor of Dermatology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center says that stress reduction won’t eliminate acne

According to a 2003 Stanford University study, college students had an increase in acne during exam periods because most acne is triggered by hormone production — in particular, androgens — which lead to the enlargement of sebaceous glands and cause increased oil production. While stress can cause fluctuations in hormone production, exacerbating acne by causing the binding of stress hormones to the stress receptors on sebum-producing cells, it’s not the actual cause of the acne.

Once acne begins to flourish, it’s tempting to scrub at it like there’s no tomorrow, but that’s not helping matters at all. In fact, scrubbing at acne can irritate it further. Instead, using tried and tested products, in addition to gently cleansing your face, can help keep acne at bay. Over-the-counter products such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and retinoids have been proven to help reduce the occurrence of acne. If over-the-counter products don’t cut it, a meeting with your dermatologist to discuss more stringent options, such as Accutane, may be in order.

Source: http://thedailycougar.com/2013/04/23/healthy-advice-no-need-to-stress-over-acne

Acne: Its Source and Most Effective Treatments

Acne is the most common dermatological conditions, affecting millions of people. It affects just everyone as long as his skin is prone to acne due to causes of acne like hormonal changes. As a result, it may bring devastating effects on person’s self-esteem – a person's overall emotional evaluation of his or her own worth. There are now many acne treatments applicable to anyone according to types of treatment. Just understand which methods of treatment work best for you.

What is acne?

Acne — also known as pimples, zits, blemishes and other similar euphemisms — occurs when the pores of your skin become clogged, in most cases by oils and makeup. Each pore contains a hair and an oil gland. Some skin types produce more oils than others, and this is why some people have worse acne than others. 

What causes acne?

According to PubMed Health, acne is most common in teenagers, but anyone can get acne, even babies. Acne tends to run in families and may be triggered by: 

1. Hormonal changes related to puberty, menstrual periods, pregnancy, birth control pills or stress.
2. Use of greasy or oily cosmetics and hair products.
3. Certain drugs — such as steroids, testosterone, estrogen and phenytoin.
4. High levels of humidity and excessive perspiration.

Many believe chocolate, nuts or greasy foods can cause acne, but scientific research does not support these theories. However, some studies have shown diets high in refined sugars may contribute to the development of acne. 

 

How can I get rid of acne?

The most effective ways I've found of preventing and treating acne include:

1. Clean your skin gently with a mild, nondrying, fragrance-free soap.
2. Remove all dirt or makeup daily. The heavy cleaning needs to be done at night; in the morning you can just a warm washcloth.
3. Avoid greasy cosmetics or creams. This may sound strange, yet remove your makeup with baby oil. It is gentle on your skin. Then wash your face.
4. When you get a pimple, drain it and then clean with alcohol to prevent infection. I know this goes against current recommendations, but if the pore stays closed and inflamed, you will develop acne scars.
5. Comb or pull your hair back to keep the hair out of your face.
6. Avoid wearing tight headbands, baseball caps and other hats.
7. Avoid touching your face with your hands or fingers. If you use over-the-counter acne products, it’s not important which one is better than another; the key is to find which one works for you. It may take some time to find the right product, but all your effort will be worth it when you do. (I am a true believer in ProActive products because they really worked for my teenagers).
8. A small amount of sun exposure may help to dry the oily skin, but I do not recommend tanning beds for teenagers. Sun exposure should be limited, though. Remember you are not exposing your skin to tan your skin.

The following minor medical procedures may also be helpful:

1. A laser procedure called photodynamic therapy may be used.
2. Your doctor may also suggest chemical skin peeling; removal of scars by dermabrasion; or removal, drainage, or injection of cysts with cortisone.
3. People who have cystic acne and scarring may try a medicine called isotretinoin (Accutane).

You will be watched closely when taking this medicine because of its side effects, which can cause permanent damage if not monitored closely.It’s important to note that pregnant women should not take Accutane because it causes severe birth defects.

Parents help your children build their self-worth and self-esteem by helping them to look their best at all times, and this includes treating acne of any kind.

Source: http://www.ksl.com/?sid=24543855&nid=1009