How To Beat The Acne Stigma
Acne is a disease of the teens. Young adults and teenagers get it the most but older adults can also get acne. A variety of factors such as excessive oil production in the skin, bacteria, clogging of the oil gland ducts are all responsible for producing acne.Acne in its mildest form is seen as open or closed comedones that is, blackheads and whiteheads.More severe types of acne have red inflamed and pus filled pimples sometimes with pockets of pus filled that can be painful and sometimes lead to scarring. Acne along with the post pigmentation marks it leaves and the scars and pits all constitute the acne stigma that causes psychological depression, low self esteem and social withdrawal in these young adults.
It is important therefore to consult a dermatologist to prevent and treat acne. Treatment stars with proper skin care. Non- comedogenic products that do not clog pores, water based moisturisers, lotions or serums work better. Facewash with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid as an active ingredient may be used.Treatment consists of ointments that decrease oil production and target bacteria. Other treatment parameters include antibiotics, hormones and isotretinoin. Depending on the grade of acne and its response to treatment your doctor will decide to put you on one of them or a combination of treatments after discussing potential side effects and benefits.
Pigmentation that is left with acne can also be treated with skin lightening agents and peels or lasers in a skin care clinic.Scars depending on the type and size may or may not respond well to treatments but you may be asked to go for treatments such as dermaroller, fractional Co2, fractional laser and RF therapies.Some of the other skin care treatments that may benefit people with acne in a dermatologist office are Hydrafacial, Carbon peels, peels with salicylic acid, mandelic acid and Jessners peels.
Although acne in clinical studies is not shown to be linked to foods but a decrease in intake of dairy foods and fried foods may be beneficial to some. A healthy diet and lifestyle consisting of eating plenty of vegetables, fruit and exercise helps. Good suncare becomes very important as some of the treatment creams may make the skin more sensitive to the sunrays. The sunblock should be non comedogenic and dermatologist recommended with SPF 30 or more. Those undergoing treatments such as peels and lasers need to be even more careful at taking all precautions.
