Acne, otherwise known as acne vulgaris or pimples, is a skin condition that appears as non-inflammatory eruption of the skin. They usually take the appearance of pink or red round spots on the skin that can be slightly itchy at times depending on the severity. Acne is experienced by 96 percent of individuals at the time of puberty and many individuals experience into their adult years as well. These spots, while after they appear, heal on their own, they can leave scarring.
There are many different causes of acne and despite common myths, they are not caused by specific food items but they can be made worse. This is not by ingesting them – it is through the grease and other bi-products touching the mouth and face while being eaten. Other causes such as stress, hormones, genetics, chemical exposure, and menstruation may be a factor as well as simple hygiene. The overall effects of these factors result in the pores being blocked by sebum, oil, and dead skin cells, then producing bacterium which then causes the eruption. Depending on the type or severity of acne, the infected areas may remain only a slightly different color than the individual’s skin or they may become deep red and have the appearance of being swollen.
While a person may not experience severe acne when the spots first appear, certain actions tend to make them worse. Individuals are advised not to pick at them or try to remove them as this spreads the bacteria and can cause another outbreak. Scrubbing the skin does not assist in removing them but can actually irritate the skin which has other consequences. Wearing cosmetics that are oil-based are a factor in making acne worse as the oil gets into the pores and can cause outbreaks. Cosmetics that are labeled as oil-free are a better choice that those with oil.
There are many different treatments that a person can try from both the chemical and the natural lines of products. Both of these types of products generally have some form of acid such as hydrogen peroxide or others. They are available in creams, gels, cleansers and so on. Apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, and many other natural forms may assist in the treatment of this condition. Some cases of acne require an oral treatment such as a hormone medication. There are also combination therapies of antibiotics and topical treatments. Each of these treatments is individualized according to the person’s body, hormones, reactions to the treatments, as well as personal preference. Those with severe acne are usually referred by a doctor to visit a dermatologist for further treatment. Acne is not considered to be a curable condition but it is treatable. It is important to remember that it needs to be an ongoing treatment to prevent more breakouts from occurring or they may reappear.
Patients that have had successful treatment of severe acne but have been left with scars can take solace in the more recent medical discoveries. There are ways to eliminate the scars through resurfacing, laser treatment, chemical peels and more. It is just a matter of choice.
