What is Acne and What can be done about it?

Acne is a condition that occurs when the oil glands of the skin produce too much oil. However, it is important to note that everyone’s skin produces oil to an extent. It is a natural and necessary process that lubricates the skin. In the acne sufferer, however, the oil becomes trapped in the oil ducts and this results in whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples on the skin’s surface. In more severe cases, acne sufferers deal with cystic acne, which are deeper skin lesions than pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads.

Here is a breakdown of what acne consists of:

• Blackheads are dark in appearance because the skin pore is blocked by an oil and cell mixture.
• Whiteheads are skin pore blockages that appear white or flesh colored.
• Pimples sometimes contain puss and they swell on the skin.
• Cysts are closed sacs that are deeper within the skin than blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. They are filled with fluid or substances that are somewhat solid, making them feel hard when they are touched.

An individual may have acne that consists mostly of one or more of the above issues. The areas of the skin that tend to develop acne the easiest are those that contain the largest number of oil glands. For instance, just your forehead has 2,000 oil glands per square inch. The runners up are the face, back, shoulders, and the chest.

Who gets acne?

Acne primarily occurs in teenagers and young adults in their 20s. But it is important to note that acne does not have a cutoff point because it can occur in anyone of any age. It is common to see acne in older adults and children may also experience it. A small percentage of adults who had acne as teenagers may continue to experience it anywhere between the ages of 25 and 40. It is also possible for some women to not see a case of acne until around the age of 25. Furthermore, many women notice a flare up before their menstrual period.

For most individuals, regardless of age, acne will last for three or four years. There are, however, cases in which it can last anywhere from 8 to 12 years. The most severe cases tend to happen in men.

What are some acne solutions?

There are a number of acne solutions that are used today. There are surgical procedures and there are non-surgical natural acne cures.

The earlier treatment is administered, the better. For instance, early intervention can result in reduced scarring, less pain, limit the formation of new whiteheads and blackheads, and lessen the embarrassment that occurs with acne.

Mild to moderately severe acne may be treated with benzoyl peroxide, Salicylic acid, Resorcinol, or sulphur. Natural acne cures consist of cleaning the face with soap and water, changing bedding frequently, wearing loose clothing for acne on the chest, back, and shoulders, and staying away from heavy makeup.

More severe cases may call for surgical procedures, such as chemical peels, as ordered by a dermatologist. However, it is your choice as to which acne solutions are right for you. The important thing is that you have a choice.