Acne is commonly known as pimples, white heads or black heads. It is a condition that affects both men and women, in teenage as well as adulthood. Commonly involved areas include the face, shoulders, back and chest. They are caused by multiple factors such as oily skin, bacteria, hormones, stress, pollution and improper skin care.
Teenagers suffering with break outs usually face social embarrassment and feel lack of self esteem, hence it needs to be treated as early as possible to avoid post acne pigmentation and permanent scarring.
If you have tried over-the-counter (non-prescription) products for several weeks and they have not helped you then you need a stronger treatment. A skin care doctor can help you:
- Control your pimples, blackheads, whiteheads
- Avoid scarring or other damage to your skin
- Make scars less noticeable
Treatment and medications work by reducing sebum means oil production, speeding up skin cell turnover, fighting bacterial infection and reducing inflammation which helps prevent scarring. With a well planned treatment, you may see results in six to eight weeks, sometimes your skin may get worse before it gets better. In some stubborn cases, it can take many months or years for the acne to clear up completely.
Treatment for acne
Medications: The treatment begins with a detailed consultation about lifestyle, genetics and skin care practices. Investigations are advised if necessary. After which relevant skin care, homeopathic medications and diet modifications are advised.
Advanced treatments such as IPL (Intense Pulse Light) photofacial, chemical peels containing Salicylic acid, Mandelic acid and Azelic acid, microdermabrasion, may be advised. These are extremely safe, effective and quick acting on.
Lifestyle and home remedies for acne
You can try to avoid or control mild break outs with non-prescription products, good basic skin care and other self-care techniques:
- Wash problem areas with a gentle cleanser twice a day, if you have dandruff then shampoo your hair every day. Avoid facial scrubs, astringents and masks. Use non-greasy cosmetics and products labeled water-based or non-comedogenic, means they are less likely to cause acne.
- Try over-the-counter acne products to minimize excess oil and promote peeling. Look for products containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acids, which may help mild to moderate acne. It may take a few weeks before you see any improvement.
- Protect your skin from the sun. For some people, the sun worsens acne. And some medications make you more susceptible to the sun’s rays. Regularly use a non-oily (non-comedogenic) moisturizer that includes a sunscreen.
- Avoid touching or picking acne. It can lead to infection or scarring.
- Shower after strenuous activities. Oil and sweat on your skin can lead to breakouts.