Thousands of individuals suffer from the emotional and physical effects that comes with skin problems. Acne is among the most prevalent types of skin disorders today. To better understand acne, its causes and its treatments, we must first understand what acne is.
What is Acne?
It has long evaded physicians exactly what causes an individual
to get acne. What they do know is that the pores on the skin become blocked
which can lead to the skins sebum (oil) becoming trapped below the surface.
Because these pores are blocked bacteria grows and the result is acne. These
pores that are filled with oil are commonly referred to as whiteheads and
blackheads. The only difference between the two is that a whitehead is a result
of a pore’s complete blockage and a blackhead
is the result of a pore’s partial blockage.
What are the Different Types of Acne?
The most common type of acne is acne
vulgaris. This type of acne includes; white heads, blackheads, cysts, papules,
nodules and pustules. Another form of acne is acne rosacea. This form of acne
usually affects adults. Individuals suffering from acne rosacea suffer from
red rashes that are typically found on the face. The areas affected are; cheeks,
chin, nose and forehead. In some cases blood vessels are more prevalent. Red
bumps and/or pimple may also accompany rosacea. This form of acne is perhaps
the most embarrassing to the one who suffers from it. Acne
conglobata is a
more serious form of acne rosacea. This type of acne can leave scarring and
damage the skin greatly. It affects young adults most often and males under
age thirty are the most apt to get acne conglobata. Young children under the
age of eighteen are least susceptible to this more serious type.
Acne Treatments
Today there are many over the counter treatments available
for the less severe acne types. Benzoyl peroxide is a common over the counter
medication for the treatment of blackheads and whiteheads. Another popular
ingredient found in over the counter acne medications is salicylic acid. Salicylic
acid dries up pimples, blackhead and whiteheads. Both these ingredients are
proven to be effective acne fighting ingredients. The strength will be considerably
less than a doctor can prescribe. A stronger dose may be obtained from a dermatologist.
If you have a severe case of acne, you will want to seek out a dermatologist
for treatment. Often (acne such as acne conglobata) will require accutane available
by prescription only. Your doctor will most likely give you not only an antibiotic
but also a topical cream or ointment. Sulfer, cleocin-t and retin-a are also
used in the treatment of acne. Most are available over the counter in a lesser
strength than by prescription.
Laser Treatment
Treatment for acne through the use of lasers is now FDA approved.
A green laser light is delivered through the skin’s surface triggering
the bodies’ natural
bacteria fighting defenses. The result is the reduction of current outbreaks
and future ones. Results can be seen in as little as four treatments.
Common Questions about Acne
Q. Do certain foods cause an individual to break
out with acne?
A. No there is no proof that chocolate or fried foods cause breakouts.
If you eat fried foods, touching your hands to your face can promote breakouts.
Q. Is it okay to pop a pimple?
A. Generally it is best not to. When you pop
a pimple you run the risk of scarring.
Q. Can my changing hormones cause an outbreak?
A. Yes, this is why teenagers,
pregnant women and individuals under stress endure more frequent outbreaks.
Q. Is it ok to use someone else’s make up?
A. No, you are spreading bacteria
when you share.
Q. What is the best way to prevent acne from spreading?
A. Wash your hands
frequently. Do not share skin products such as foundation, powder and washing
apparatus. Do not use abrasive sponges on your skin. Scrubbing harder will
only break the skin open and cause further agitation.
Is Acne Curable?
Since we do not know what causes acne, all
we can do is treat it. Generally, as we grow older acne lessens and breakouts
are few and further between. In the case where acne is severe or ongoing be
sure to seek out a dermatologist for treatment. With proper care and treatment
most outbreaks will lessen over time and eventually may clear up completely.
