Improper hygiene, poor diet, stress and sexual behavior were
thought to be causes of acne, but in reality the causes are
unclear. What is clear is the cascade of events that form acne.
Hair follicles, or pores, become blocked by oil, which normally
drains to the surface of the skin. This blockage occurs way
below the skin surface, and causes the pores to collapse. At
this point bacteria begin to overgrow, resulting in the
formation of a white head. If this trapped oil, and bacteria
partially reaches the surface, a black head is formed. Acne
affects most teenagers, however this condition is not restricted
to any age group; adults get acne as well. In addition, acne can
occur on the face, neck, back, chest, shoulders, and upper arms.
While not life threatening, acne has a profound social effect,
and if severe enough, can lead to permanent scarring. Avoiding
acne is a difficult task; treating acne has become more
manageable.
Contrary to popular belief, face scrubbing with an abrasive
washcloth will cause skin irritation, and worsen the problem. A
gentle cleanser twice per day, that does not over dry the skin,
would be the better alternative. Avoid using any bar soaps,
which can irritate the area. Research has been done on the
efficacy of different antibacterial alternatives. Several
studies have shown that a 2.5% benzoyl peroxide solution has a
very high acne bacteria kill rate, and is not subject to
bacteria tolerance. Applying Benzoyl Peroxide liberally to the
infected area should improve the acne within 10 days. It is
important that a moisturizer be used in conjunction, since
Benzoyl Peroxide does dry the skin. Further, it is important to
check to see if any allergies to Benzoyl Peroxide exist by
applying a small amount to the skin, and observe any reactions.
Most cases of acne can be easily managed, however there are
cases that are extreme, and result in scarring.
In cases of extreme acne that cause pain, and scarring it is
necessary to see a Dermatologist. Today, virtually every case of
acne can be resolved, and future out breaks can be avoided with
the appropriate Dermatological care. Several options are
available if scarring does occur. Dermabrasion is a surgical
procedure whereby the physician attempts to make scars less
noticeable by sanding them using a small hand held tool. This
procedure is ideal for shallow imperfections. Laser Resurfacing
works the same as dermabrasion, utilizing a laser rather than a
hand held tool. Skin augmentation is a nonsurgical way to remove
small skin depressions caused by acne scars. Various materials
are injected into or under the skin to raise the surface and
make the scar look smooth.
Not only is acne a physical condition, a psychological component
is present as well. Acne sufferers can experience, behavioral
problems, academic decline, social isolation, substance abuse,
depression, even suicide. Teenagers are more vulnerable in this
respect because both acne and depressive disorder have a peak
incidence during adolescence. Although acne is not a
life-threatening disease, appropriate management is vital to its
successful resolution.
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