Acne is a very common problem, especially among teens. Women frequently have acne breakouts during pregnancy and again during menopause. Any time the hormones are out of balance, acne can become an issue.
Acne is the blockage of the skin's pores. Scientists don't understand the exact process by which this occurs.
When the pore is blocked, sebum, the oil secreted by the sebaceous glands to help keep skin soft and supple, is trapped. The trapped sebum leads to the growth of bacteria – this is acne.
The symptoms of acne can include either blackheads or whiteheads. Blackheads occur when the blockage is visible from the surface of the skin – the black coloration is caused by melanin, the skin's pigment. Whiteheads occur when the blockage stays below the surface layer of the skin.
An acne outbreak usually consists of both whiteheads and blackheads.
Acne is treated through various methods. Many are over-the-counter acne solutions while others are only available through a prescription from your doctor.
Benzoyl peroxide: This compound is available at any drugstore in many over-the-counter acne treatments. Benzoyl peroxide fights acne by killing bacteria that cause the outbreaks. Those with delicate skin may experience irritation. Benzoyl peroxide also dries the skin, so those acne sufferers with dry skin should probably not try this treatment.
Antibiotics: Because acne is caused by bacteria, serious outbreaks are sometimes treated with oral antibiotics. A wide variety of antibiotics are prescribed by doctors and dermatologists to fight acne. Clyndamycin is a type of antibiotic often employed against acne.
Retin-A: An ingredient in many anti wrinkle compounds. This compound is thought to help unplug follicles and thus clear the skin. Retin-A first brings all subsurface acne to the surface of the skin, so you may get worse before you get better. Retin-A also drastically increases sun sensitivity, so avoid direct sunlight.
Salicylic acid: Another frequent ingredient in over-the-counter acne products. Salicylic acid helps break apart clumps of skin cells that frequently lead to acne, as well as clearing up blockages in the pores. This ingredient is used to treat other skin disorders, including psoriasis, warts and calluses.
To prevent acne, thoroughly cleanse your face each morning and evening. Minimize or eliminate make-up which can clog the pores. Also, diets high in refined carbohydrates and simple sugars can often intensify acne outbreaks.
In the case of a serious acne outbreak, see your doctor or dermatologist.