The Ugly Truth About Acne
What is Acne?
Acne can be defined as a skin condition where plugged pores, pimples, and cysts can appear on any area of your body including your back, chest, shoulders, upper arms and especially your face. Acne does not discriminate either and can be found on infants and adults of all ages. Acne is a very common skin condition that effect’s millions of people regardless of age, race, or location. I call this the ugly truth about acne.
Acne can be so mild that it is hardly noticeable or so severe that it can result in being devastating to the person’s self esteem. Some people do not even want to leave their home because of their condition, and so it can really end up being quite debilitating.
Acne Causes
One of the biggest questions surrounding this skin condition is what causes it. There are actually a few answers to this question, but first it should be known that the myth that fatty and sugary foods cause acne is actually not true.
Basically acne occurs when the pores on the skin become clogged. Each separate pore is an opening to a canal known as a follicle, and when glands in the skin begin to produce too much oil the pores can end up blocked and will then begin to accumulate dirt and debris. As a result of this, usually but not always pimples will develop.
Acne can also be triggered by genetics, as family history plays a major role here. Hormonal changes related to menstrual periods or pregnancy, greasy or oily cosmetic products, certain medications, and high levels of humidity, all of these can trigger acne.
You will notice that you have acne if you have certain symptoms, including whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, redness on the skin, crusting of skin eruptions, or scarring on the skin.
Acne Treatment
Depending on how serious your condition is you may want to get treatment for it, and the best way to determine the appropriate treatment for you will be to speak to your doctor, or better yet a dermatologist. They will look at your skin and from this be able to assess the severity of your condition and decide on a treatment method.
Once you consult with your Doctor or Dermatologist they may recommend medication to treat your Acne condition. Normally they will recommend some type of lifestyle change first before writing a prescription, and never take any type of Acne medication without consulting with a medical professional first. Be smart. If your Doctor or Dermatologist feels that medication is your best option, there are various prescription Acne creams and Acne lotions that are available to combat both existing and future Acne conditions.
