"Unlocking the Secrets of Acne: Understanding and Treating Your Breakouts"
Acne is one of the most common skin problems for adolescent and adult patients. It affects about 80 to 90 percent of teenagers, and about 40 percent of adults. It primarily occurs during the teenage years, but can persist into adulthood. If left untreated, acne can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement. The condition is highly subjective, and people may have varying responses to the same treatment. Therefore, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for acne. Several factors may play a role in your response to a treatment, and your response will depend on your individual needs and personal characteristics. Read this guide to discover more about what causes acne, the treatments available, and how to keep your skin healthy.
What causes acne?
Acne occurs due to an imbalance in the levels of hormones in the body. Hormones may be produced by both the inside and outside of the body. Inside the body, hormones are produced by the sebaceous glands. Outside the body, hormones are produced by the adrenal glands and the ovaries. When production of these hormones is excessive or not balanced with other hormones, acne may develop.
Some of the most common causes of acne are the following:
- Excessive production of sebum due to a genetic predisposition.
- Strict diet like skipping carbohydrates or just taking meat and fruit diet without balancing it with other foods may result in low production of fats or proteins in the body resulting in acne.
- High intake of caffeine, excessive intake of alcohol or just stress can result in hormonal imbalances resulting in acne.
- Poor diet like not eating fruits and vegetables regularly can result in low levels of antioxidants in the body which can result in acne.
- Stress can cause acne due to hormonal imbalance.
- Conservative clothing like wearing black clothes or clothes which do not allow the skin to breathe can result in blocked pores which cause acne.
- Using cosmetics or any products which contain harmful chemicals can result in acne.
- Poor hygiene like not washing your face properly or not cleansing your face properly can result in acne.
- Certain infections like bacterial acne can result in acne.
- Treatments like Proactive, benzoyl peroxide, laser, and Fractional RF.
What Are the Different Types of Acne?
There are several types of acne lesions. The severity of acne and the treatment may change for each type. If you’re experiencing mild acne, you may experience the following types of acne:
- Whiteheads
Whiteheads are small white bumps that form inside the hair follicle. They are not painful or inflamed.
- Blackheads
Blackheads are also known as sebaceous filaments. They are black lesions that form inside the hair follicle. They are inflamed and may cause the skin to become red and swollen.
- White Papules & Red Spots
These are also called pustules. They are red raised lesions that occur inside the hair follicle.
- Spots
Spots are also known as papules. They are also red raised lesions that occur inside the hair follicle.
- Underneath the Skin
Acne lesions under the skin are also called cysts. They are also red raised lesions that occur inside the hair follicle.
- On the Face
Face acne is also known as open comedones. It is characterized by small red bumps that occur on the face.
- On the Chest
Chest acne is also known as closed comedones and it is characterized by whiteheads and blackheads.
- Back
Back acne is also known as open comedones and it is characterized by blackheads and whiteheads.
Types of Acne Treatments
There are several types of acne treatments including topical medications, oral medications, light therapies, and surgical procedures. Depending on the type of acne you are experiencing, you may need to try more than one treatment before finding the one that works best for you.
- Topical Treatments
Topical medications are taken directly on the skin. They include benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and antibiotics. Antibiotics are taken to treat bacterial acne and are available in the form of pills, gels, or liquids. They are applied to the skin using a medication pad.
- Oral Treatments
Oral medications are taken in the form of pills. They include antibiotics, isotretinoin, and Accutane. Accutane is a medication that is taken for severe acne. It is an oral medication that is taken in the form of pills
- Isotretinoin
A vitamin-A based medication that reduces sebum production, kills acne bacteria, and reduces inflammation.
- Natural Remedies
There are many natural remedies that can help with mild to moderate acne. They include consuming dairy products, eating fruits and vegetables, taking probiotics, and drinking green tea.
- Consuming Dairy Products
Dairy products such as milk and yogurt contain hormones that help prevent acne.
- Eating Fruits And Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are a great source of antioxidants. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce acne.
- Taking Probiotics
Taking probiotics can help reduce inflammation and prevent acne.
- Drinking Green Tea
Green tea contains antioxidants that can help prevent acne.
Conclusion
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions. It happens when your pores get clogged, and bacteria inside those pores multiply and produce sebum. This sebum causes blockages in the hair follicles, leading to inflammation and swelling. Acne can happen at any age, and the severity of the condition can vary greatly from person to person. If you have acne, you should visit a doctor as soon as possible. There are many treatments available, and your doctor can help you find the right one for you.