Abstract
This research study aimed to find a cause and prevention of acne. Acne is a common problem that affects about 90% of teenagers. It occurs during a time of low self-esteem and high concern about appearance. There are many acne products on the market, and making an appropriate selection can be daunting. But a simple step-wise approach to the selection of medications can remove much of the confusion.But the exact cause of acne is unknown but there are several risks that are identified. There are four main factors that cause acneOil production, Dead skin cells, clogged pores, Bacteria. Acne typically appears on your face, neck, chest, back and shoulders. These areas of skin have the most oil (sebaceous) glands. Pimples are raised red spots with a white center that develop when blocked hair follicles become inflamed or infected. Also there are factors that worsen acne too, hormones, and certain medication, and diet, stress which can trigger or aggravate an existing case of acne. There is also a factor that has little effect on acne/ called as acne myths: Greasy Food, Dirty skin and cosmetics. There are various preventative measures that may prevent or reduce acne flare-ups. , the goals of acne treatment are to prevent or minimize pimples, and to prevent scarring. Early treatment is best to avoid scarring. The treatment selected for acne is dependent upon the type of acne and the severity of the acne. Once your acne improves, you may need to continue your acne medication or other treatment to prevent new breakouts. You might need to use a topical medication on acne-prone areas, continue taking oral contraceptives or attend ongoing light therapy sessions. Talk to your doctor about how you can keep your skin clear.
Keywords:Acne, oil production, dead skin cells, clogged pores, bacteria, sebaceous glands, hair follicles, hormones, diet, stress, greasy food, dirty skin, cosmetics
Introduction
'1. What is Acne? 2. What are the causes of Acne? 3. How can we prevent acne?'
Acne is a common skin disease characterized by pimples on the face,chest,and back. It occurs when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil,dead skin cells,and bacteria. It the most common skin disease. Acne can a rise at any age, it usually begins at puberty and worsens during adolescence. Nearly 85% of people develop acne at sometime between the ages of 12-25years. Up to 20% of women develop mild acne.The sebaceous glands lie just beneath the skin's surface. They produce an oil called sebum, the skin's natural moisturizer. These glands and the hair follicles within which they are found are called sebaceous follicles. These follicles open onto the skin through pores. At puberty, increased levels of and rogens (male hormones) cause the glands to produce too much sebum. When excess sebum combines with dead, sticky skin cells, a hard plug, or come do, forms that block the pore. Mild noninflammatory acne consists of the two types of comedones, whiteheads and blackheads.
Moderate and severe inflammatory types of acne result after the plugged follicle is invaded by Propionibacterium acnes, a bacteria that normally lives on the skin. A pimple forms when the damaged follicle weakens and bursts open, releasing sebum, bacteria, and skin and white blood cells into the surrounding tissues. Inflamed pimples near the skin's surface are called papules; when deeper, they are called pustules. The most severe type of acne consists of cysts (closed sacs) and nodules (hard swellings). Scarring occurs when new skin cells are laid down to replace damaged cells.
The most common sites of acne are the face, chest, shoulders, and back since these are the parts of the body where the most sebaceous follicles are found.
Causes of Acne
Four main factors cause acne:
' Oil production
' Dead skin cells
' Clogged pores
' Bacteria
Factors that worsen acne:
' Hormones
' Certain medications
' Diet
' Stress
Acne Myths:
' Greasy Foods
' Dirty skin
' Cosmetics
Other Causes:
' Age. Due to the hormonal changes they experience, teenagers are more likely to develop acne.
' Gender. Boys have more severe acne and develop it more often than girls.
' Disease. Hormonal disorders can complicate acne in girls.
' Heredity. Individuals with a family history of acne have greater susceptibility to the disease.
' Hormonal changes. Acne can flare up before menstruation, during pregnancy, and menopause.
' Diet. No foods cause acne, but certain foods may cause flare-ups.
' Drugs. Acne can be a side effect of drugs including tranquilizers, antidepressants, antibiotics, oral contraceptives, and anabolic steroids.
' Personal hygiene. Abrasive soaps, hard scrubbing, or picking at pimples will make them worse.
' Cosmetics. Oil-based makeup and hair sprays worsen acne.
' Environment. Exposure to oils and greases, polluted air, and sweating in hot weather aggravate acne.
' Stress. Emotional stress may contribute to acne.
Acne patients are often treated by family doctors. Complicated cases are referred to a dermatologist, a skin disease specialist, or an endocrinologist, a specialist who treats diseases of the body's endocrine (hormones and glands) system.
Acne-Prevention:
There are no sure ways to prevent acne, but the following steps may be taken to minimize flare-ups:
' Wash acne-prone areas only twice a day. Washing removes excess oil and dead skin cells. But too much washing can irritate the skin. Wash affected areas with a gentle cleanser and use oil-free, water-based skin care products.
' Use an over-the-counter acne cream or gel to help dry excess oil. Look for products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid as the active ingredient.
' Use non-oily makeup. Choose oil-free cosmetics that won't clog pores (noncomedogenics).
' Remove makeup before going to bed. Going to sleep with cosmetics on your skin can clog your pores. Also, it's a good idea to throw out old makeup and regularly clean your cosmetic brushes and applicators with soapy water.
' Wear loosefitting clothing. Tightfitting clothing traps heat and moisture and can irritate your skin. When possible, avoid tightfitting straps, backpacks, helmets, hats and sports equipment to prevent friction against your skin.
' Shower after strenuous activities. Oil and sweat on your skin can lead to breakouts.
' Avoid touching or picking at the problem areas. Doing so can trigger more acne.
Acne treatment consists of reducing sebum production, removing dead skin cells, and killing bacteria with topical drugs and oral medications. Treatment choice depends upon whether the acne is mild, moderate, or severe.
Fast facts on acne
' Acne is a skin disease that involves the oil glands at the base of hair follicles.
' Acne commonly occurs during puberty.
' Acne is not dangerous, but can leave skin scars.
' Types of pimples include whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nobules, cysts.
' Approximately three-quarters of 11 to 30 year-olds will get acne at some time.
' Acne can affect people of all races and all ages.
' Experts believe the primary cause is a rise in androgen levels (hormone).
' A susceptibility to acne could also be genetic.
' Treatment for acne may depend on how severe and persistent it is.
' Acne can be affected by the menstrual cycle, anxiety and stress, hot and humid climates, oil based makeup, greasy hair and pimple squeezing.
Literature Review
1. Acne: Causes, Diagnosis and How to Get Rid of Acne
Written by Christian Nordqvist
(VERBATIM STATEMENT)
'Acne, medically known as Acne Vulgaris, is a skin disease that involves the oil glands at the base of hair follicles. It commonly occurs during puberty when the sebaceous (oil) glands come to life – the glands are stimulated by male hormones produced by the adrenal glands of both males and females.
Acne is not dangerous, but can leave skin scars. Human skin has pores (tiny holes) which connect to oil glands located under the skin. The glands are connected to the pores via follicles – small canals. These glands produce Sebum, an oily liquid. The sebum carries dead skin cells through the follicles to the surface of the skin. A small hair grows through the follicle out of the skin. Pimples grow when these follicles get blocked, resulting in an accumulation of oil under the skin. The word acne comes from the word acme meaning "the highest point," which comes from the Greek akme meaning "point" or "spot" – it was originally misspelt, with an 'n' rather than an 'm' in 1835In humans, pimples tend to appear on the face, back, chest, shoulders and neck.Simply put – skin cells, sebum and hair can clump together into a plug, this plug gets infected with bacteria, resulting in a swelling. A pimple starts to develop when the plug begins to break down.
Scientists from the Washington University School of Medicine found that there are good and bad strains of bacteria that determine the severity and frequency of developing acne. They explained in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (March 2013 issue) that not all acne bacteria trigger pimples – in fact, one strain they identified can help keep the skin pimple-free.
Nobody is completely sure what causes acne. Experts believe the primary cause is a rise in androgen levels – androgen is a type of hormone. Androgen levels rise when a human becomes an adolescent. Rising androgen levels make the oil glands under your skin grow; the enlarged gland produces more oil. Excessive sebum can break down cellular walls in your pores, causing bacteria to grow. Some studies indicate that a susceptibility to acne could also be genetic. Some medications that contain androgen and lithium may cause acne. Greasy cosmetics may cause acne in some susceptible people. Hormone changes during pregnancy may cause acne either to develop for the first time, or to recur.
The types of acne pimples.
' Whiteheads – remain under the skin and are very small
' Blackheads – clearly visible, they are black and appear on the surface of the skin. Remember that a blackhead is not caused by dirt. Scrubbing your face vigorously when you see blackheads will not help
' Papules – visible on the surface of the skin. They are small bumps, usually pink
' Pustules – clearly visible on the surface of the skin. They are red at their base and have pus at the top
' Nobules – clearly visible on the surface of the skin. They are large, solid pimples. They are painful and are embedded deep in the skin
' Cysts – clearly visible on the surface of the skin. They are painful, and are filled with pus. Cysts can easily cause scars.
How common is acne?
Dermatologists (skin specialists) say that approximately three-quarters of 11 to 30 year-olds will get acne at some time. Acne can affect people of all races and all ages. It most commonly affects adolescents and young adults, although there are people in their fifties who still get acne. According to Brown University, USA, approximately 17 million Americans are estimated to have acne at any one time.
Although acne affects both men and women, young men suffer from acne for longer – probably because testosterone, which is present in higher quantities in young men, can make acne worse.
How to get rid of acne
How your acne is treated may depend on how severe and persistent it is.
Treating mild acne
The majority of people who get acne will develop mild acne. This can usually be treated with OTC (over-the-counter) medications. OTC medications can be bought at a pharmacy without a doctor's prescription. They are usually applied to the skin – topical medicines.
Most acne OTC products may contain the following active ingredients:
' Resorcinol
Resorcinol helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. It is a crystalline phenol and comes from various resins. Resorcinol is also used for treating dandruff, eczema and psoriasis.
' Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl Peroxide kills bacteria and slows down your glands' production of oil. Benzoyl peroxide is a white crystalline peroxide used in bleaching (flour or oils or fats) and as a catalyst for free radical reactions. It works as a peeling agent, accelerating skin turnover and clearing pores, which in turn reduces the bacterial count in the affected area.
' Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid helps break down blackheads and whiteheads, also reduces shedding of cells which line the follicles of the oil glands, effective in treating inflammation and swelling. Salicylic acid is a white crystalline substance which is also used as a fungicide, or in making aspirin or dyes or perfumes. It causes the epidermis to shed skin more easily, prevents pores from becoming blocked while at the same time allowing room for new cells to grow. It is commonly added to shampoos used for treating dandruff.
' Sulfur
Sulfur helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. Sulfur, in its native form, is a yellow crystalline solid. Sulfur has been used for centuries for treating acne, psoriasis and eczema. Scientists are not sure how sulfur works to help skin diseases. We do know that elemental sulfur does oxidize slowly to sulfurous acid, which is a mild reducing and antibacterial agent.
' Retin
Retin-A helps unplug blocked pores. Retin-A contains Tretinoin, an acid from of vitamin A, also known as all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). Tretinoin is also used for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia. Retin-A has been used widely to combat aging of the skin, and it also acts as a chemical peel.
' Azelaic Acid
Azelaic Acid strengthens cells that line the follicles, stops oil eruptions, and reduces bacteria growth. It is a saturated dicarboxylic acid found naturally in wheat, rye, and barley. Azelaic acid also mops up free radicals, which reduces inflammation. It is useful for patients with darker skin who have dark patches on their face (melasma), or whose acne spots leave persistent brown marks.
You can buy acne medications in the forms of gels, soaps, pads, creams and lotions. If your skin is sensitive, you may prefer a cream or lotion. Gels, which are usually alcohol-based and tend to dry the skin, are better for people with oily skin. OTC medications will have these ingredients in different concentrations. It is advisable to start with the lowest strengths. You may experience skin irritation, redness or burning when you first try them. These side effects usually go away after continued use. If they do not, you should see your doctor.
Treating more severe cases of acne
If your acne is more severe, you should consider seeing a dermatologist – a skin specialist. The specialist may prescribe a treatment that contains some of the active ingredients mentioned above, such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, as well as adapalene. Prescription medications for acne are presented in many forms, such as creams, lotions, etc. Your dermatologist will decide what is best for you.
You may be prescribed an oral or topical antibiotic. Antibiotics can combat the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation. Most commonly Erythromycin and Tetracycline are prescribed as antibiotics for the treatment of acne.
Treating a cyst with intralesional corticosteroid injection
If an acne cyst becomes severely inflamed, there is a high risk of rupturing. A rupturing acne cyst can often result in scarring. The specialist may inject a diluted corticosteroid to treat the inflamed cyst and to prevent scarring. The injection will lower the inflammation and speed up healing. The cyst will "melt" within a few days. Isotretinoin.This is a strong oral retinoid, used for the treatment of severe cystic acne, as well as severe acne that has not responded to other medications and treatments. Oral antibiotics are frequently prescribed for patients with severe acne and some patients with moderate acne too. The aim of such oral antibiotics is to lower the population of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a bacterium commonly found on the skin, which will multiply rapidly in blocked follicles. The dosage will be initially high, and then as the acne reduces so will the dosage. Antibiotics are not taken for more than six months. As time passes the P. acnes can become resistant to the antibiotic and another antibiotic is needed. Some American studies have indicated that it is better to use oral broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Oral contraceptives the majority of women with acne find that taking certain oral contraceptives clears it up. Oral contraceptives suppress the overactive gland and are commonly used as long-term treatments for acne in women. If a woman has a blood-clotting disorder, smokes, has a history of migraines, or is over 35, she should not take this medication without checking with a gynecologist first.
Topical antimicrobials (topical = applied to the skin or mucus membranes)
As with oral antibiotics, the aim of topical antimicrobials for the treatment of acne is to reduce P. acnes populations. Topical antimicrobials are used for patients with moderate to severe acne. Examples may be clindamycin, erythromycin, and sodium sulfacetamide
The dermatologist may prescribe a topical retinoid. Topical retinoids are a derivative of Vitamin A and are very popular for the treatment of acne. They unclog the pores and prevent whiteheads and blackheads from developing. Examples of topical retinoids prescribed in the USA are adapalene, tazarotene, and tretinoin
How to look after your skin if you have acne (or are prone to acne)
The following are some tips for looking after your skin if you suffer with acne:
' Wash your face about twice each day. Do not wash it more often. Use a mild soap made especially for people with acne, and warm water. Do not scrub the skin. Experts advise the use of an OTC lotion which contains benzoyl peroxide
' Don't try to burst the pimples. You may push the infection further down, causing more blocking and worse swelling and redness. Popping pimples makes scarring more likely
' If you have to get rid of a pimple for some event, such as a wedding, or public speaking occasions, ask a specialist to treat it for you
' Try to refrain from touching your face with your hands. When you are on the phone try not to let the receiver touch your face – there may be sebum and skin residue on it
' Keep your hands clean, wash them regularly
' Always wash your hands before touching your face. This includes before applying lotions, creams or makeup
' Glasses should regularly be cleaned. They will collect sebum and skin residue
' You skin needs to breathe. If your acne is on your back, shoulders or chest try wearing loose clothing. Tight garments, such as headbands, caps and scarves should be avoided – if you have to wear them make sure they are cleaned regularly
' Don't go to sleep with makeup on. Only use makeup that is noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic – you should be able to read this on the label. If you cannot find it, ask the shopkeeper or pharmacist. You should use makeup which does not have oil and does not clog up the pores
' Hair collects sebum and skin residue. Keep your hair clean and away from your face
' Too much sun can cause your skin to produce more sebum. Several acne medications make it more likely that you will be sunburned
' If you shave your face, do it carefully. Use either an electric shaver or safety razors. If you use a safety razor make sure the blade is sharp. Soften your skin and beard with warm soapy water before applying the shaving cream.'
2. 9 Bad Habits That Can Cause Pimples
By Diana Rodriguez | medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH
(VERBATIM STATEMENT)
'Clear, healthy, blemish-free skin is a dream for many ' and though you can't do anything about your hormones or hereditary, two main causes of acne, you can alter your daily routine to improve your skin's appearance. Break your skin care bad habits to prevent acne and enjoy the healthy glow of clear skin.
Acne, the term for what's commonly called pimples or zits, occurs when oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells clog hair follicles. People with oily skin may be more susceptible to pimples because of their acne-prone skin, but breaking bad habits can still help them ' and everyone else ' prevent acne.
Break These Acne-Causing Habits
Here are the top bad habits that can take a toll on your acne-prone skin, resulting in pimples and blemishes:
Bad Habit No. 1: Washing your skin too often
Though it's important to keep your skin clean, washing it too often will only make acne worse. Instead, wash your face in the morning when you wake and at night before bed.
Bad Habit No. 2: Vigorously scrubbing your skin
Scrubbing your skin with a washcloth, loofah, or harsh exfoliant will cause significant irritation ' and may worsen your acne-prone skin. To prevent acne, always wash with only lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser.
Bad Habit No. 3: Not cleaning sweaty skin
After you've had a tough workout or been outside in the hot sun, your skin may be covered with sweat. Don't let it dry on your skin ' instead, always bathe or wash your skin promptly after sweating.
Bad Habit No. 4: Picking at your skin and popping your pimples
While it may be irresistible to pick or pop pimples, these behaviors can cause increased redness from squeezing the pus deeper into the skin and sometimes even scarring. Instead, keep your hands off your face and let pimples go back down to size with the help of an anti-acne lotion or cream.
Bad Habit No. 5: Skipping the shampoo
If you've got oily hair, that oil can seep down onto your face ' and cause pimples. Make sure you wash your hair each day to keep excess oil off of your forehead, face, and back to help prevent acne.
Bad Habit No. 6: Getting hair products on your face
It's important to keep hair spray, gel, mousse, or other hair products off your face to prevent them from clogging up your pores. Cover your face when applying these products to keep them on your hair and off your skin.
Bad Habit No. 7: Eating greasy foods
While the food that you eat doesn't cause acne, greasy foods can make acne-prone skin worse because of the excess oil and grease that can get on the skin from the food itself. So stick to a healthy diet without greasy, fried foods to spare your skin ' and your health.
Bad Habit No. 8: Using cosmetics that contain oil
If you've got acne-prone skin, the last thing you want to do is introduce even more oil. When you buy makeup and other skin products, look for oil-free options labeled with the terms "non-acnegenic" or "non-comedogenic" to help prevent acne.
Bad Habit No. 9: Stopping your acne treatment
If you're using prescription acne medications for your pimples, it's great news when your skin starts to clear up. But that doesn't mean you're free to stop using your medication. To keep a recurrent breakout at bay, finish all of your prescription acne medications as recommended by your doctor unless directed otherwise.
Replace your bad skin care habits and practices with good ones to help bring acne under control. With a few simple changes, your skin ' not your pimples ' will be glowing.'
3. All About Acne
By Diana Rodriguez | Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH
(VERBATIM STATEMENT)
'We've all been there: the morning of a big date or important meeting, you look in the mirror to discover a major breakout. Whether it's just one pimple or a cluster, acne is one common problem that has several solutions.
What Is Acne?
Acne, or acne vulgaris, occurs when glands in the skin produce and secrete too much of the skin's natural oil, called sebum. Sebum clogs pores in the skin, resulting in a pimple ' or, worse, several pimples. Bacteria in the sebum can cause inflammation and worsen the acne.
A pimple or acne breakout can pop up anywhere, but usually strikes the face. Other common areas for acne breakouts include the neck, shoulders, chest, and back.
Acne is a very common problem ' actually, it's the most common skin condition affecting people in the United States. As many as 50 million Americans live with acne, and most of them are in their teen or young adult years. Although anyone can get acne ' boys, girls, men, and women ' at any age or stage of life, it's most common in teens. About 85 percent of teenagers will eventually get acne.
Causes of Acne
Acne can be caused or exacerbated by a number of different things, including:
' Changes in hormone levels (such as during puberty or menstruation)
' Cosmetics or hair or skin products
' Having a family history of acne
' Some medications
' Something rubbing on the skin (like a hat or helmet)
' Vigorous scrubbing of the skin
' Stress
Acne Treatment and Prevention
There are several different acne treatment options, and which one is best for you depends on how severe your acne is. A good skin care regimen is often the first line of defense for mild acne or the occasional pimple ' that means washing your face no more than twice a day (but always after sweating) with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water.
Sometimes, more treatment is needed to keep skin healthy. To clear up or prevent an acne breakout, you can try:
' Over-the-counter medicated cleansers, lotions, creams, gels, face pads, and more Prescription-strength topical ointments, creams, lotions, and other acne treatments
' Oral prescription treatments, including antibiotics or oral contraceptives for women
' Isotretinoin (Sotret, Claravis, Amnesteem, Accutane, and others), a pill prescribed to manage very severe acne
' Injections of a corticosteroid
' Laser treatments, including blue light therapy, pulsed light and heat energy therapy and diode laser treatment.
If you have acne, you will probably have to treat it for a long period of time ' not just during an acne breakout. Work with a dermatologist to determine the most appropriate treatment for your acne, and how long you should follow the treatment regimen. It's important not to stop acne treatment before your doctor says it's okay ' otherwise, you run the risk of having another acne breakout just when your skin starts to clear.
Without treatment, you may experience persistent acne breakouts and scarring of the skin, as well as anxiety and low self-esteem. Often, acne will clear up after you're out of the teen years, but even some adults struggle with acne and problem skin and need treatment for it.
You don't have to deal with persistent acne ' nor should you. Try over-the-counter treatments and healthy habits to help clear up problem skin, or for more severe acne see a dermatologist for prescription-strength treatments.'
4. You're Never Too Old for Acne
By Diana Rodriguez | Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH
(VERBATIM STATEMENT)
'You may have thought that once you graduated from college, you'd be done with acne. Maybe you've even turned 30 or are starting to see the first signs of wrinkles, but find that your acne lingers on.
Acne sometimes continues beyond the teen years, or it may begin anew later in your life. However it happens, adult acne can be embarrassing and frustrating ' but it is treatable.
Teens and Acne Breakouts
Teen acne is often caused by fluctuating hormones during puberty. Changes in hormone levels cause too much sebum, or oil, to be produced by the glands in the skin, resulting in acne breakouts. Lotions and creams that help to dry up excess oil on the face and body are often successful in treating a teen's acne breakouts ' but that's not always the case when it comes to adult acne. Topical acne treatments that may work well for teenagers sometimes irritate adult skin, resulting in acne getting worse rather than better.
Why Adults Have Acne Breakouts
Adult acne can have very different causes than teen acne. Though hormones can also trigger adult acne ' pregnancy, menstruation, and even menopause can bring on acne breakouts in women ' an adult's lifestyle is often responsible for acne outbreaks.
Some other common causes of adult acne include:
' Medication side effects, including progestin-only birth control pills, corticosteroids, and anticonvulsant medications
' Heavy, oil-based skin and hair products
' Stopping oral contraceptives (birth control pills)
' Having family members with acne
' Health problems like polycystic ovary disease or problems with the adrenal glands
' Too much stress
Studies have also found that stress is a major cause of adult acne, particularly in women ' especially those who have a lot of stress at work. Stress causes the body to produce more hormones called androgens, which can lead to excess oil production in the skin and acne breakouts.
Types of Adult Acne
There are two main types of adult acne:
Late-onset acne. Most commonly affecting women, this type of adult acne suddenly appears after years of having clear skin. It sometimes occurs even in people who have never had a problem with acne. Pimples typically appear around the mouth, or on the chin, jaw, back, or chest.
Persistent acne. This type of acne, also most common in women, is acne that persists from the teen years well into the twenties and beyond. Deep, painful pimples that are inflamed often appear on the lower portion of the face around the mouth, jaw, and chin.
Adult Acne Treatment
Effective adult acne treatment and prevention options include:
' Prescription retinoid creams, sometimes combined with an antimicrobial cream containing the ingredient clindamycin
' Moisturizers and foundations that contain acne medication, such as salicylic acid. These are gentler on the skin and dry it out less than products for teenagers that contain the same primary ingredients.
' Prescription gels, lotions, and creams that offer a combination of acne-fighters, such as an antimicrobial (erythromycin or clindamycin) and benzoyl peroxide
' Corticosteroid injections into pimples
' Over-the-counter topical creams that include a combination of sulfur and sodium sulfacetamide
' Isotretinoin (Sotret, Claravis, Amnesteem), an oral medication for very severe, difficult-to-treat acne
' Oral treatments to manage changes in hormone levels, including hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives, and spironolactone
' Antibiotic pills
It's also very important for adults with acne to regularly cleanse the skin with a gentle cleanser, and avoid sunburns, picking or popping pimples, and rough scrubbing of the skin.
You shouldn't be embarrassed about it if you have adult acne ' but you shouldn't ignore it either. Adult acne can be tough, but certainly not impossible, to treat. Work with a dermatologist to find the appropriate acne treatment, and give your skin time to clear up and heal.'
5. How Julie Conquered Severe Acne
By Kristen Stewart Reviewed by Farrokh Sohrabi, MD
(VERBATIM STATEMENT)
'Julie Lin suffered physically and emotionally because of severe acne. But she found successful treatment and started a web site to help others.
Like many people, 28-year-old Julie Lin of Austin, Texas, thought that acne was mainly a problem for teenagers. She learned through personal experience that that's not always the case ' especially if you develop acne vulgaris.
'I first got mild acne when I was in high school, mostly small pimples all over my forehead,' Lin said. 'They went away on their own, but my first serious bout of severe acne happened when I was 21. I thought you were supposed to grow out of acne, but acne seemed to be happening to me in reverse!'
Lin's problem is not uncommon. Acne often starts at about age 11 or 12 and can be the first sign of puberty, but it doesn't always end there.
'It used to be thought of as a 'teenage problem,'' said Jessica Krant, MD, a New York City dermatologist and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. 'We now know it continues into adulthood for some people. And,' Dr. Krant adds, 'some people who never had a problem with acne as a teen suddenly may start to break out in their 30s or 40s.'
In Lin's case, acne began as small, skin-colored bumps around her chin and jaw line that worsened over a year or two. After squeezing the bumps and using various acne treatments, they became inflamed whiteheads. Soon they spread to her cheeks, temples, and forehead. The pimples grew larger, and deep painful cysts would develop.
Perhaps the worst effect of her acne, however, was on her self-esteem. She declined invitations to go out with friends because she didn't want anyone to see her skin. When social interaction was unavoidable, she looked down at her feet the whole time. People asking about her skin or suggesting that she wash her face only made her feel worse and more self-conscious. She became moody, negative, and depressed ' and she was desperate for relief.
'I used all sorts of things to treat my acne,' Lin said, 'over-the-counter acne creams, home remedies, chemical peels, prescription products, you name it. At one point,' she added, 'I was even trying to see if hypnosis treatments existed for clearing skin! I bought pretty much every acne kit out there and even acne e-books that promised an 'acne cure.' Unfortunately, none of that worked.'
Treating Acne Vulgaris
A trip to the dermatologist is recommended for anyone living with severe acne, especially the more serious types of acne vulgaris ' cystic acne, nodular acne, and nodulocystic acne. And Dr. Krant advised seeing a dermatologist earlier than you might think.
Acne may seem like a simple condition, but it's actually complex and has various interacting causes. Dermatologists can offer prescription creams and pills, as well as lasers and light-based treatments. However, many times the focus is more on evaluating a person's habits and lifestyle, and helping to set up a plan for prevention, management, and maintenance.
Lin saw several dermatologists, hoping each time for miraculous results. But success came in the form of patience and hard work. She began testing treatments and remedies one at a time. Eventually she found that the combination of using a nondrying cleanser, refraining from picking at her pimples, and taking fish-oil supplements did the trick for her. She started to see results in about three months, but it took almost a year for her skin to become completely clear.
Helping Others Living With Severe Acne
After personally experiencing the physical and emotional toll of acne, Lin decided she wanted to assist others. In 2008, she started the Web site Skinacea.com to share what she had learned and to help others avoid the frustration of trying so many unsuccessful products and treatments.
Lin also emphasized the importance of perseverance. 'Learn about your individual skin,' she said. 'Everyone's skin responds differently to treatments, and everyone gets acne for different reasons. Figure out your own skin and learn what's causing you to break out. This will take lots of time and patience. But listen to what it's trying to tell you, and don't give up.'
Lin also recommended a healthy dose of perspective, encouraging everyone with acne to look beyond their skin issues. As she said, 'Acne may not be a choice, but you can choose to not let acne rule your life.'
Conclusion
Treating acne is certainly a task that requires dedication, but more importantly it requires a total body approach. Simply treating your skin or your diet is never going to be enough. You have to treat the condition both inside and out. I spent many years suffering from acne, and it is my greatest hope that my experiences can be used to help ensure that others never have to go through the frustrating and sometimes even painful process of trial and error that I had to endure. I wish you all the best success with the total acne treatment, and I can assure you that if you are willing to stick with it, success will indeed be yours.
Reference
1. http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/acne
2. http://www.lorealparisusa.com/en/beauty-library/articles/breakoutscauses-and-prevention.aspx
3. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/107146.php?page=2
4. http://www.everydayhealth.com/acne/bad-skin-habits.aspx
5. http://www.everydayhealth.com/acne.aspx
6. http://www.everydayhealth.com/acne/adult-acne-treatment.aspx
7. http://www.everydayhealth.com/acne/how-julie-conquered-severe-acne.aspx