Every teenager goes through the depressing phase of acne. To look good temporarily they burst or pop the acne which makes it look worse and leaves a permanent scar on the face. Acne can develop as early as the age of ten and can be there till you are twenty-one years old. As a teen getting acne can not only be trouble physically but emotionally as well. It can affect the self-esteem which can directly affect the studies and confidence.
Let’s understand what is acne and how to get rid of it.
What is acne?
Acne is a common skin problem which occurs during teenage. This is usually marked by clogged pores (whiteheads, blackheads), painful pimples, and, sometimes, hard, deep lumps on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, back, and upper arms.
Why does it happen?
When a person reaches puberty, there is a sudden increase in sex hormones called androgens. These excess hormones produce oil in your oil glands (which contains in your skin pores) by making the gland overactive resulting in the production of too much oil, or sebum. When there is too much oil in the skin, pores get blocked and bacteria starts to grow. When the blocked pores become infected it leads to pimple, whitehead, blackhead.
What can lead to acne?
- Genetics play a role in acne. If your parents have acne, there are chances that the offspring also might have acne.
- Any medicine containing androgen or any other medicine such as epilepsy medication, lithium, and prednisone) can cause acne.
- Cosmetics which are oil/grease based can lead to acne.
- Skin experiencing friction from leaning on or rubbing the skin; harsh scrubbing
- Squeezing or poking blemishes
- Tightly worn items such as helmet, backpacks or a tight collar shirt
- Stress
Treatment:
Topical treatment
Seeking a prescription from a medical doctor for topical treatment including applying acetic acid, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and sulfur to the skin. These can be in the form of gels, lotions, creams, soaps, and pads. It will take four to eight weeks to take effect.
Oral treatment
For people who have moderate acne, doctors will prescribe oral antibiotics along with topical medication. Oral treatment can control the acne by curbing the growth of bacteria in the pores. It also reduces the size of oil glands thus producing only a little amount of oil.
Injections
Cysts can also be treated with an injection. A series of intralesional cortisone injections can reduce inflammation. To unclog the pores a salicylic acid peel can be used.
How can you avoid it in the future?
- Avoid using harsh scrubs
- Do not over-wash the face. Cleaning too much can leave the skin irritated and dry. This triggers the gland to produce more oil which increases the chance of pimples
- Use of noncomedogenic or oil-free products
Popping pimples will not do any good, that will only lead to more inflammation and permanent scarring. Hope you find this information valuable! Take care!