Acne is one very frustrating condition that can put a dent on one’s confidence. Teenagers, adults, and even babies – millions of people get acne at any one time and if you have it, you are not alone.
The most common myth about acne is that once you have it you should just let it run its course. Without proper treatment and professional attention, permanent scars can appear on the skin.
What is acne?
Acne appears when a pore in our skin clogs. Hair, sebum (oil) and skin cells can clump together in a plug and bacteria in the clogged pore can cause it to swell. Inside the pore, the bacteria is housed in a perfect environment where they multiply very quickly. The pores then becomes red and swollen (inflamed) and when the inflammation scurries deep into the skin, an acne cyst appears.
What are the signs of acne?
Aside from the face, acne can appear on other parts of the body – neck, back, shoulders, chest and the upper arms. Here are the signs you should watch out for:
- Blackheads
- Whiteheads
- Papules
- Pustules/pimples
- Cysts and nodules
What should you do if you start getting acne?
The first thing to do is see a dermatologist.
Dermatologists are skin experts who will study and note the type of acne that you have. He or she will work out an individualized treatment plan that may include medications or procedures like laser acne therapies and chemical peels.
Results will not happen overnight but treatment with your dermatologist will clear your skin and prevent new breakouts.
What can you do to manage acne?
According to the AAD, you can reduce your acne by following these skin care tips.
- Wash twice a day and after sweating.
- Use your fingertips to apply a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. Using a washcloth, mesh sponge or anything else can irritate the skin.
- Be gentle with your skin. Use gentle products, such as those that are alcohol-free.
- Avoid the temptation to scrub your skin.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
- Shampoo regularly. If you have oily hair, shampoo daily.
- Do not pick, pop or squeeze your acne. This will only cause your skin to take longer to clear and you increase the risk of getting acne scars.
- Keep your hands off your face.
- Stay out of the sun and tanning beds
