BLOG 298 ACNE
Acne is a very common
skin condition that has to do with hair follicles, oil, and dead skin cells.
Acne likes to make itself visible through its presentation of pimples, oily
skin, blackheads, whiteheads, and scarring. These symptoms are found on the face,
chest, shoulders, and back. Almost everyone has had one of these acne types at
some point in their life. The oil glands on the face clog the pores. Pores are
where hair follicles are found. Large pores that are clogged create blackheads.
These look like tiny black dots on the face. Small pores that are clogged
create whiteheads which are the white colored bumps that surface and release
puss when aggravated. Either type can develop into a pimple that is typically
tender and swollen. Severe cases of acne form nodules that can even become
infected.
Acne likes to claim
its fame during puberty and last into a person’s 20’s. Adult acne is more
common in women than men. The primary culprit of acne is hormones. Heredity
also comes into play. Chocolate won’t cause acne as commonly believed. The
increase in hormones during the teenage years produces more androgens which are
the male sex hormones (including testosterone). Testosterone produces sebum
which is the skin’s oil glands. Bacteria can also clog the hair follicle pores.
It is the bacteria that makes the black and/or whitehead. It then makes sense
that women on birth control or people using steroids are at higher risk for
acne due to hormonal changes induced to the body.
For most people, acne
makes them feel uncomfortable. Although mainly temporary, it can leave
scarring. There are plenty of over-the-counter remedies such as facewashes and
creams. When these approaches don’t work, a doctor might prescribe medication.
Make up and cover creams can be an option. The most effective treatment is
trying to prevent sebum production. Preventing bacteria growth is also
important. Exfoliation can help unclog the pores. Cleansers can be used that
have sulfur, and/or benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid, salicylic acid. For many, soap and water alone can help prevent
acne. For others, topical gels, alcohol, or acetone might need to be used to
reduce oil on the skin. This will help treat how the skin grows and sheds. A
doctor can prescribe antibiotics. Some of these medications do have possible
side effects of dry skin, swelling, and sensitivity to sunlight.
No one likes the visibility of acne, and the teenage years can be troublesome when it comes to appearance. Hormones like to control us in so many ways. Keeping a clean face will always help. We just must remember to hold our heads up high even if a few bumps are on the surface. Fortunately, acne is only temporary.
