Acne is a common skin disease that causes pimples. Acne affects a large percentage of humans at some stage in life. Acne lesion, called the comedo is simply an enlarged and plugged hair follicle. It is considered an abnormal response to normal levels of the male hormone testosterone. Acne lesions usually occur on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. Acne lesions are commonly referred to as pimples, spots, plukes or zits. The condition is most common in puberty. The response for most people diminishes over time and acne thus tends to disappear, or at least decrease, after one reaches his or her early twenties. Although acne is usually not a serious health threat, it can be a source of significant emotional distress. These are more inflamed and pus-filled or reddish bumps, that can easily lead to scarring or serious infections. Non-inflamed ‘sebaceous cysts’, more properly called epidermoid cysts, occur either in association with acne or alone but are not a constant feature. After resolution of acne lesions, prominent unsightly scars may remain. Acne usually appears during adolescence, when people already tend to be most socially insecure. Early and aggressive treatment is therefore advocated to lessen the overall impact to individuals.
Acne is affects young men and young women about equally, but there are differences. Several factors are known to be linked to acne molstly Hormonal activity, such as menstrual cycles and puberty ,Stress, through increased output of hormones from the adrenal (stress) glands. Hyperactive sebaceous glands, secondary to the three hormone sources above ,Accumulation of dead skin cells ,Bacteria in the pores, to which the body becomes ‘allergic’,Skin irritation or scratching of any sort will activate inflammation ,Use of anabolic steroids ,Any medication containing halogens (iodides, chlorides, bromides), lithium, barbiturates, or androgens ,Exposure to high levels of chlorine compounds, particularly chlorinated dioxins, can cause severe, long-lasting acne, known as Chloracne ,Traditionally, attention has focused mostly on hormone-driven over-production of sebum as the main contributing factor of acne. People of all races and ages get acne. It is most common in adolescents and young adults. An estimated 80 percent of all people between the ages of 11 and 30 have acne outbreaks at some point.
Treatment of Acne
1.OTC bactericidal products containing benzoyl peroxide may be used in mild to moderate acne. The gel or cream containing benzoyl peroxide is rubbed, twice daily, into the pores over the affected region.
2.Stiemycin or tetracycline aim to kill the bacteria that are harbored in the blocked follicles.
3.Acne can be improved with hormonal treatments. The common combined oestrogen/progestogen methods of hormonal contraception have some effect, but the anti-testosterone, Cyproterone, in combination with an oestrogen (Diane 35) is particularly effective at reducing androgenic hormone levels.
4.Oral antibiotics used to treat acne include erythromycin or one of the tetracycline antibiotics (tetracycline, oxytetracycline, or one of the once daily doxycycline, minocycline or lymecycline).
5.Use a gentle astringent/toner to wipe away oil. (There are many brands available in pharmacies, as well as from manufacturers of cosmetic lines.)
6.Pantothenic acid, also known as vitamin B5, is commonly supplemented in “mega-doses” by acne.
Home Remedies to Fight Acne
1.Lemon is an excellent cleanser for acne affected skin. You can mix fresh lemon juice with rose water and apply to affected skin. Wash off after half an hour with clean water.
2.Ordinary toothpaste can dramatically help with acne. If your face feels swollen, put a little bit of toothpaste on your pimples before going to bed.
3.Mint has been used to stop acne for centuries. It probably grows in your garden or you can buy it in a fruit and vegetable shop. Squeeze
4.Simple home vinegar is an effective acne cleanser. Mix it with a little salt and gently rub into your face. Wash off in about 30 minutes.
5.Cucumber also used to fight and prevent acne. Make a cucumber paste, put it on your face and let is stay there for several minutes.
6.Drinking your 8 glasses of water is also important in a fight against acne.
7.Wash your skin every day, morning and evening
8.Avoid oil food.