ACNE: It is a long term skin disease in which the tiny holes in skin known as follicles are blocked by dirt, oil, bacteria and dead skin cells.
It causes spots and pimples , especially on the face , shoulders, back, neck, chest and upper arms.
Types of ACNE:
Acne pimples are different depending upon their size, color, shape, and level of pain. Following are a few possible types:
Whiteheads: These are closed small pimples under your skin, appear white.
-Blackheads: These are small pimples opening at the surface of the skin, appear black.
-Papules: Small pinkish bumps, visible on the surface of the skin, caused due to inflammation.
-Pustules: Small bumps visible on the surface of the skin that is red at the base and has pus at their tips.
-Nodules: Large, solid painful pimples, visible on the surface of the skin but are deeply embedded also.
-Cysts: Large, pus-filled painful pimples on the skin and these also cause scars.
Causes of ACNE:
It commonly appear at the age of puberty due to hormonal changes that cause sebaceous (oil) glands attached to hair follicles ( pores giving rise to hairs ) to secret large quantity of sebum (oil liquid). Pimples grow when these follicles get blocked, either by oil , bacteria dead skin cells or dirt. Other causes include:
-genetic factors
-greasy cosmetics
-hormonal changes
-emotional stress
-menstruation
.Acne occurs at any age. It is not dangerous , but it can leave skin scars.
Trearment:
Home remedies:
Some home remedies suggested for acne are:
-Diet: Research found that people who consume a diet that offers Vitamin A , Vitamin E and zinc can reduce chances of severe acne. Moreover a low glycemic diet can also help.
-Tea-tree oil: Research says that 5% of tea-tree oil help to treat mild to moderate acne
-Tea: Tea contain polyphenols that may help to treat acne including green tea if applied in a tropical preparation.
-Moisturizers: Those moisturizers which contain atleast 10% concentration of aloe vera or witch hazel can provide soothing and anti-inflammatory effect.
Medication:
Medication used for acne treatment contain those ingredients that help to reduce oil production on your skin and kill bacteria.
These includes:
-Benzoyl peroxide: It kills acne causing bacteria, dry out existing pimples and prevents new one. Many acne creams and gels contain benzoyl peroxide.
-Sulfur: Lotions, cleansers and masks containing sulfur are used for acne treatment.
-Resorcinol: It is used to remove dead skin cells but is less common.
-Salicylic acid: A content of soaps and acne washes which prevents pores from getting plugged.
Sometimes you may continue to experience symptoms then you must seek medical advice. A doctor's prescription can treat you well.
Prevention:
As acne is a disease its difficult to prevent it but you can take some steps to prevent it from getting worse. Here are some steps of self care:
- Wash your face twice a day with warm water and an oil free cleanser or soap made for acne.
- Do not burst your pimples as it will spread the inflamation on other areas of skin.
- Wash hands frequently and especially before applying lotions, creams or makeups.
- Avoid oily makeup products
- Remove makeup and clean your skin thoroughly before going to bed.
- Must take a shower after exercise
- Try not to use tight-fitting clothing.
- Have a healthy diet with minimum sugar content.
- Keep yourself cool and dry to prevent sweating in hot and humid climate.
- Always stay positive in every situation as stress and anxiety can become the reason of acne.