Acne which is the concern and source of depression for many people around the world is a common chronic skin condition that may or may not be coupled with inflammation. It causes complications like whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. It can deal serious psychological distress especially in adolescents and leave patients with severe skin scarring.
Our skin contains numerous pores and
oil glands and they are especially found in the face. And when these pores are
clogged they manifest as Acne. The reason for such can be directed to-
·
Bacterial
action.
·
Hormones
·
Hyper
keratinization
·
Dead
Cells
·
Excessive
production of oil by glands
Acne is experienced
mostly by teenagers as they go through hormonal changes.
For a
fruitful treatment of acne, it is required to identify the actual thing. Acne
is divided into 2 category-
1. Inflammatory- This are seen as red and swollen and
is caused mainly by excessive oil production and dead skin cells. Bacteria can
also play a role in such a case creating infection beneath the skin resulting in
painful and stubborn acne. They include 4 types Papules, Pustules, Nodules, and
Cyst (Most-Severe).
Product having
benzoyl-peroxide can help in this type of acne. But doctor may suggest oral or
topical antibiotics along with it. For Nodules and Cyst type it is highly
recommended to visit a Dermatologist and they can easily leave a scar.
2. Non-inflammatory- This type includes Blackheads and
Whiteheads and occurs due to oil and dead cells but causes no swelling and is
considered to be the mildest form of acne. This type can be easily treated
using Over-the-counter commodities like Face-wash, Moisturizers, and Toners.
Products having Salicylic acid can be helpful for treatment. But
Topical Retinoids are the best for this type of acne’s treatment.
It should be noted that there are
other diseases that can produce signs and symptoms like acne. So, in case of persistent
problems over a long time despite medication, Dermatologists should be consulted.
Apart from
medication, there are certain ways to reduce the chances of having an acne according
to dermatologists. This are-
·
Rinsing with lukewarm water- This opens up the pores and prevent
them from clogging.
·
Washing face at least twice daily and
after sweating- It helps in removing excess oil and allows proper perspiration. Especially those
who wear a mask or cover their face.
·
Using Facewash or Cleansers
·
Avoid using irritant products- This can initiate an inflammatory
response and cause acne.
·
Using Shampoo- Prevents oil from accumulating
around the base of the hair.
·
Avoid touching, popping and squeezing
acne
·
Avoid touching the face especially
around the acne-
This can transmit bacteria over one area to another through the hand and can
cause flare-ups.
·
Avoid Sun and tanning- Doing so can damage the skin and increase
the chance of acne formation.
Available treatment Procedures-
1. General Treatment- Using Benzoyl-peroxide, Salicylic
acid containing products, Antibiotics to kill bacteria, Birth control pills,
and other medications that work on hormone (Consult Doctor before use) and Isotretinoin.
2. Advanced Procedures-
·
Laser treatment.
·
Chemical Peels (Cannot be bought).
· Acne removal through the “Drainage and Extraction” procedure.
Acne
treatment requires a large time-frame of 4 to 8 weeks although some may show
spontaneous improvement. But even after the skin clears treatment should be
continued to prevent further attack.
Reference-
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31502795/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12716217/
4. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/derm-treat/treat
5. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/skin-care/tips
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