Acne
is a very common and pesky skin affliction that affects most people with
combination to oily skin at some point in their life. In most cases acne
usually debuts early in life (around puberty) and we call it teenage acne, but
in some cases it appears later in life (past 20 years of age) and we call it
adult/hormonal acne. Acne causes spots to develop on the skin, usually on the
face, back and chest. These spots or blemishes can range from papules, black
heads and white heads — which are often mild — to
deep, inflamed, pus-filled pustules and cysts, which can be severe and
long-lasting and lead to scarring.
Why Do You Get Acne?
Acne
is linked to your genetics and known to run in families. If both your mother
and father had acne, it is likely that you will also have acne. It is most
commonly linked to the changes in hormone levels during puberty, but can start
at any age.
Acne
affects the oil-producing glands next to the hair follicles in the skin.
Certain hormones cause these glands to produce larger amounts of oil (sebum). This abnormal sebum changes the
activity of a usually harmless skin bacterium called P. acnes, which becomes
more aggressive and causes inflammation and pus. The hormones also thicken the
inner lining of the hair follicle, causing blockage of the pores (opening of
the hair follicles). Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during the
menstrual cycle or pregnancy, can also lead to episodes of acne in women.
Using
wrong skin or hair products (comedogenic) can exacerbate acne.
Some
medications also cause acne.
Friction
or rubbing the skin (helmet, hat, tarha/scarf) can also cause acne
There
is some evidence that stress and diet also play a strong role in acne.
What Can You Do If You Have
Acne?
Keeping
your skin clean is important, but will not prevent new spots from developing.
Wash the affected area twice a day with a mild soap or cleanser, but do
not scrub the skin too hard to avoid irritating it. If your skin is
dry, use a moisturizer. While choosing your emollient make sure the product is
dermatologically tested and labeled oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it doesn't
cause spots.
Sad
fact about acne is that it can't be cured permanently, it can be controlled
with treatments and proper skincare. Several creams, lotions and
gels for treating spots are available at pharmacies.
If you suffer at the hands of
acne, it's a good idea to speak to your dermatologist for skincare advice and
prevention. Products containing a low concentration of benzoyl peroxide or
retinoic acid may be recommended (be careful as these can cause skin irritation
and bleach clothing).
If your acne is severe, is
leaving behind PIH and scarring or appears on your chest and back, it may
need to be treated with antibiotics or stronger treatments that are
only available on prescription.
My
Acne Prescription
As we have already
established there is no cure for acne but it can be controlled by judicious use
of skincare and medications here’s my advise on how to keep your skin
unblemished and clear even if your gene
For severe and cystic acne
that affects the face as well as body and leaves behind scarring you better see
a dermatologist as soon as possible before any permanent damage to your skin
happen.
If
you have acne, you will probably have to treat it for a long period of time —
not just during an acne breakout. Work with a dermatologist to determine the
most appropriate treatment for your acne, and how long you should follow the
treatment regimen. It's important not to stop acne treatment before your doctor
says it's okay — otherwise, you run the risk of having another acne breakout
just when your skin starts to clear.
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