Acne also known as Acne Vulgaris, it is an inflammatory disease or skin condition that involves the sebaceous glands of the skin; characterized by papules, pustules or comedones. Acne is a term dermatologists (skin specialists) or skin experts use to mean clogged pores, pimples and lumps or cysts that a person have on the face, neck, shoulder, back, chest, and the upper arms.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin disorder in the USA. It occurs when the oil-secreting glands in the skin are clogged and become infected or inflamed. Acne affects the skin's oil glands, and these glands secrete an oily substance known as sebum.
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In this article, we are going to look at what acne is and the types of acne. You will also get to know what causes acne and the treatments one can adopt to get rid of it.
What is acne?
Teenagers during puberty are more likely to suffer from acne. Studies indicate that about 85% of people between the ages of 12 - 25 have had acne at some point in their lives.
Boys and girls in their teens want to know how they can cure their acne and end the embarrassment they face in public.
It is everyone's desire to get rid of their acne and get a clearer looking skin that they can be proud of.
It is known that teenagers are not the only ones who suffer from this skin disorder, adults as well can experience the appearance of pimple on their skin. Even adults in their 40's are known to also have this skin condition.
There are many types of acne and none is known to be life threatening. However, the more severe your acne is, the more likely it is to leave a negative appearance on your skin or face, leaving you with scars.
Acne affects both boys and girls equally, but there are some distinguishing differences. Men in their early ages are more prone to have long-term severe acne but women on the other hand can experience intermittent acne because of their cosmetics use and their hormonal changes.
Types of pimples
- Whiteheads
- Blackheads
- Papules
- Pustules
- Nodules
- Cysts
What causes Acne?
Though it is known that acne affects teenagers during puberty and adults, there is no one known factor that brings about the appearance of acne on the skin - no one is completely sure. However experts believe there are some factors that cause acne, including
- Hormones
- Rise in androgen levels
- Genetics
- Some medications
- Diet high in sugar and milk products
- Heavy or oily cosmetics use
- Over-abrasive cleansing
- Environmental irritants
- Heavy scrubbing of skin
- How is Acne Treated?
Acne can be treated by the use of products available at your local drugstore or by using over-the-counter cosmetics. However, for a severe case of acne, it is advised you consult a physician or a skin specialist for treatment options.
Acne is treated with the aim of keeping oil and dirt out of the pores and reducing inflammation.
There are a lot of products and treatments out there that can be used to prevent pimples or blackheads. The treatment usually starts with applying products containing benzoyl peroxide on the affected areas of skin.
However, if by using benzoyl peroxide, you don't notice any effective changes, then antibiotic medications may also be used; either applied on the skin, or your health care provider prescribe one to be taken by mouth.
Another known treatment is the use of skin cream or gel containing tretinoin (Retin-A).
How to get rid of Acne
- Wash your face twice a day with a gentle soap.
- Change your wash cloth every day (since bacteria are known to grow on damp cloth).
- Keep clean hands. Wash them frequently and avoid touching your face unnecessarily.
- Do NOT squeeze, pick, scratch, or rub your skin. Squeezing them will leave scars on your face.
- Exercise more regularly.
- Avoid hot kitchens.
- Don't rest your face on your hands.
- Those with long hair should shampoo them at least twice a week.
- Style your hair away from the face
- Although it is not known that some foods cause acne, majority of people have found that there are some foods they eat that worsen their acne. However keep a record of the foods you eat and avoid those foods that make your acne to appear.
Know that we are all different and unique in our own way, some have dry skin and others have oily skin. What could make John have acne might not make Jane have hers. I drink or consume diet high in sugar today and the next morning I wake up with pimple on my forehead. But you wouldn't experience such a situation - your case might be different. So know what causes your pimple or acne and do your best to avoid them. Know what works for you and stick it.
I believe this article has pointed out some useful information about acne and how to get rid of it. Got any acne treatment of your own to share? What makes you have such a clearer, glowing skin? Share in the comments. Don't forget to share this post with your friends.
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