Acne is one of the most common skin problems that plague teenagers and adults. The condition is caused by excess sebum production by the oil glands, which leads to clogged pores and blackheads. It is characterized by the formation of pustules, papules, nodules and cysts.
The main cause of acne is the presence of bacteria in the follicles. Bacteria feeds on the sebum and releases toxins that cause inflammation of the follicles. The body responds by creating pus, which then turns into blackheads or whiteheads. Pimples are also known as comedones. Acne occurs when there is excessive sebum production, which leads to the growth of bacteria and inflammation of the follicles.
Although acne can be triggered by several factors, the most common ones are the menstrual cycle, stress, diet, and hormones. A lot of foods contain natural substances that can trigger acne, such as chocolate, cheese, eggs, nuts, and alcohol. These foods can also increase your stress levels, so you should avoid them if possible.
There are several medications available to treat acne. Topical treatments are usually applied directly to the skin, while oral medications are taken orally. Benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, and salicylic acid are some of the most commonly used medications for acne. They are used topically to treat mild acne, while oral medications are prescribed to treat severe cases.
The first step in treating acne is to wash your face with lukewarm water and mild soap. Then, you should gently scrub your face with a gentle cleanser. After that, you should rinse your face with cool water and pat dry with a towel. You should avoid using harsh products because they may irritate your skin.
If your skin is oily, you should use an exfoliating product to remove dead skin cells. If you have dry skin, you should use moisturizing cream. If you are sensitive to certain ingredients, you should try using a hypoallergenic cream instead.
You should also wear loose clothing and avoid wearing tight clothing because they may trap heat and moisture against your skin. Avoid wearing perfume, since it can also cause irritation.
When you have acne, you should avoid picking at your pimples. Picking can make them worse, and they can even bleed. You should also avoid scratching your face, because it can lead to infection. If you have a large number of blackheads, you should use a special device to extract them from your skin.
You should consult a doctor if your acne is severe or persistent. Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics, which are usually used to treat bacterial infections. Your doctor can also prescribe oral contraceptives, which can help reduce the amount of oil produced by your body.