Acne, which can occur from anywhere on the face, chest, neck, shoulders and upper arms, on the back, scalp and even on the legs, is a result of several related issues, one of them being the increase in the male sex hormones called androgens. It is a common teenage issue but it can occur in adults as well. Some individuals may even get acne for the first time as adults. It is commonly of the view that if your parents had a history of acne you are definitely a candidate for it. Acne can lead to severe scarring in some cases. It is best if the condition is treated as soon as it makes an appearance. This will reduce the chances of scarring considerably.
Acne is a condition that occurs when the body's immune system, which works in order to protect us from various diseases, weakens. Therefore, to strengthen the immune system it is essential we get the adequate amount of B complex, Vitamin E and Vitamin A, minerals such as Magnesium, Selenium, Zinc and also essential fatty acids.
Some people affected with acne as a teenager may have it only for a short period of time. Treatment with 2.5 percent Benzoyl Peroxide, applied directly to the area affected by acne, is quite adequate in cases like this. However, there are instances when people have acne well into adulthood and it can be severe too. It is then recommended that you visit your dermatologist and he will best outline a course of treatment for you. The treatment would involve reduction in the formation of bacteria, reduction in the production of oil, reduction in inflammation and the reduction in the irregular clustering of cells in the follicles.
Sometimes depending on the severity of the condition, your dermatologist may prescribe just a topical medicine or sometimes a topical medicine plus drugs to be taken orally. It must be noted when drugs are taken orally that there can be side effects, some mild and some more severe. It is always best to read the brochure that comes inside the package as to what the side effects may be. If you do have any side effects it is always best to go back to your physician and inform him about it.
Some of the commonly used prescribed topical medicines are:
. Benzoyl Peroxide
. Sulphur
. Resorcinol
. Salicylic Acid
The drugs that are taken orally to treat acne are antibiotics. They reduce the development of bacteria and they also reduce inflammation. Vitamin A derivatives are also taken orally, this helps in shrinking the size of the sebaceous or oil glands, decreasing the oil production, thereby decreasing the development of bacteria. However, it always recommended that you consult your doctor or dermatologist before you take anything orally.
Treatment of acne for certain women may involve the use of hormones. These too are taken orally. The most common drug taken here is the birth control pill, which controls or suppresses the production of the male sex hormone androgen, which causes acne.
In addition to the medication, it is also advisable to care for your skin by washing your face at least twice a day and remember to pat dry and not rub your skin vigorously. Refrain from touching your face all the time; this can increase the growth of bacteria. Do not break your pimples as this can lead to scarring. Stay away from the sun as much as possible as most of the medication used for acne treatment enhances the chance of sunburn and this increases the chance of skin cancer and wrinkling. When shaving, it should be done carefully in order to minimize or avoid nicking blemishes.
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Acne | |
