Acne is a common skin disease that mainly affects teenagers. It is an inflammation caused by dead skin and oil clogging the hair follicles. Treatment for this can be done depending on its severity. For mild acne, you can use cream or acne patch.
Characteristics Of Acne
Acne can be found on skin with a remarkable amount of oil glands. It includes the higher part of your chest, back, and most especially on the face.
Features or signs of acne may include the following:
- blackheads/whiteheads
- pimples
- oily skin
- scarring
- papules or small rounded bumps on the skin
- nodules or large and painful nodes beneath the skin
- cystic lesions
Acne triggers and how to manage it
There can be various factors affecting the flare-up of acne. However, most of the time, it is caused by hormonal or environmental elements. Getting an idea of the possible causes can help you manage it.
Oil and dirt
Cosmetics also contribute to acne. Its greasy component adds up to the clogged oils and bacteria that typically cause a breakout, so in that case, you can manage it by personal hygiene.
- Washing your face with warm water twice a day can be helpful. You may use acne soap if needed.
- Wash your hands frequently as well before touching your face.
- Use make-up that is specially made for sensitive skin. As much as possible, avoid using oil-based products.
- Always keep your hair clean and grease-free.
- Do not expose yourself to excessive sunlight, especially on acne medication. It may lead to sunburn. Prevent too much sweating, and make sure to dry your sweat immediately.
Lifestyle And Stress
Lifestyle changes play an essential role in this. Alcohol consumption and smoking can cause acne. Having an irregular sleep and diet pattern is also a common factor, and needless to say, this includes emotional stress.
Genetic Factors
Acne can also be hereditary. So you can say that at some point, it runs in the family.
Hormonal Factors
Puberty is unavoidable, and during this period, acne is most common. And this is because an increase in sebum production leads to acne, and the high androgen level within this period causes this.
Menstrual periods can also cause acne in girls.
Genetic and hormonal changes are not something you can control, but you can minimise acne by being cautious of the other factors. If it is something that you can’t manage by changing your lifestyle, you may always seek medication help, or you can look for an acne patch that works for you.
When To See a Doctor
If you have already done everything and are still unhappy about the result, it may be time to seek medical help. It is preferable to visit your doctor or a dermatologist if:
- Your acne is already emotionally uncomfortable and lowers your self-esteem.
- There is severe scarring or patches on your skin due to acne breakouts.
- Your acne can no longer be managed with home remedies or doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medicines.
- Your acne is causing depression.
Mild acne is not something that should be agonized over. You can always treat it with proper management. There are available products over the counter that you can always use. It is just a matter of knowing what works most. With these and a good lifestyle, you can quickly get rid of acne and regain confidence.
