Healthy Skin
Everybody gets acne at some point. Some worse than others. It sometimes doesn't look all that good, but it is a part of growing up.
So what is acne? Its is an inflammation of the oil glands in the skin. At first these glands become blocked, and then inflammation can lead to red bumps, and even deep tender cysts.
Acne is a common skin disorder that occurs mainly during adolescence. It usually appears only on the face, but can extend to the neck, chest and back.
Why does it happen? Well.. Its related to the increase in levels of hormones during puberty in both sexes. Although the increase in hormones is normal some people seem more sensitive to it.
Most young men aged between 13-19 will get acne. It is worse in men aged between 18-19. It is slightly less common in girls; for them it is worse around 14 years of age and also around period time.
Just the Facts
There is a lot of misinformation around about acne. Some important facts include:
- it is not usually affected by diet
- it is not caused by oily hair, or hair touching the forehead
- it not infectious from one person to another
- ordinary chemicals do not make in worse
- blackheads are not dirt, and will not dissolve in water
- it may flare up with excessive stress
Treatment
This varies according to the severity and persistence of the problem and the persons skin type, but the following can help:
- avoid foods that aggravate your acne
- use a normal soap and wash gently and often
- do not scrub, rinse well
- avoid oily or creamy cosmetics and all moisturisers
- use cosmetics sparingly
- antibiotics taken orally are of proven value
- avoid picking and squeezing blackheads
- this will cause scarring or infection
- females may benefit from taking oral contraceptive pills
- mild acne can be easily treated with creams and lotions