Acne FAQ
What Is Acne?
Simply, acne is when pores are plugged caused by overactive
oil glands. Acne is a disease which affects the tiny pores that
cover
the face,
arms, back and chest and the oil glands
attached to them.
Acne is caused when dried sebum, flaked skin and
bacteria collect in the skins pores blocking the natural oils.
A partial blockage causes a restriction in the flow of oil onto
the skins surface. This causes the oil filling the hair channel
to solidify forming a blackhead. If the partial blockage
becomes complete the oil builds up around the hair and becomes
infected
with bacteria normally present on the skin.
If the inflammation
is deep and severe, or if the spot is manipulated or squeezed,
the pus can burst deep into the
skin rather than
onto the surface. This deep-rooted inflammation and infection
results
in scarring and cyst formation.
Who is affected by acne?
Acne affects teens and adults of every size and shape in every
country with every ethnic background.
Although acne is most prominent in teenagers,
an estimated 90%, and 80% of boys and girls respectively, millions
of people of all
ages are affected by acne each year.
Teenagers are more prone to
acne due to an increased production of hormones, which regulate
the activity and size of the sebaceous
(oil-producing) glands inside the pores or hair follicles.
Many
women also get acne with each menstrual period due to a change
in hormones
and it may clear up or worsen during pregnancy. Also anyone using
anabolic steroids is more likely to have an increase in acne.
What are the most common types of acne?
Acne vulgaris: Acne vulgaris is the most common
form of the condition. Acne vulgaris is what most people think
of when they think of spots
and zits.
The clogging of the hair follicles causes unsightly and sometimes
painful skin lesions and pimples. Acne vulgaris ranges in degree
from mild to severe and, at its most severe, it can cause scarring.
Acne rosacea: Acne rosacea is an inflammation of the face, neck
or chest that results in red, bumpy, oily skin. Acne rosacea usually
appears in people aged 30 to 60. Acne rosacea is often accompanied
by acne vulgaris and often begins as a short-term condition that
can become chronic and cause facial scarring if not treated.
Cystic acne: Cystic acne occurs
when the infected contents of a pustule or pimple erupts beneath
the skin and is one of the most
severe forms of acne. The body's natural defenses then try to fight
the infection, leading to swelling and pain and often causing facial
scarring. While it usually occurs spontaneously, cystic acne can
be caused by scratching and picking at pimples.
What should I do when I have acne?
Treatment of acne at an early stage with natural products such
as Derma Cleanse or Derma
Pure will not only improve your appearance,
but will help prevent the development
of future breakouts and scarring.
To further reduce the possibility of scarring, never squeeze of
scratch lesions. Also to avoid the spread of infection keep hands
off the face.
What role does diet play in acne?
Regardless of what many people say, acne is not caused by food
and following a strict diet will not, clear your skin. Many
people
feel
that
their
acne
is
aggravated
by certain foods, particularly chocolate, colas, peanuts, shellfish
and some fatty foods, however, there is no scientific evidence
that suggests food causes or influences acne. If the acne is being
treated appropriately a balanced diet, although recommended should
not have any bearing on your acne.
Can anything be done about scarring
caused by acne?
The best prevention of scarring is to properly take care of your
acne before it gets out of control with the use of an approved
acne treatment such as Derma
Cleanse. Dermatologists can use
various
methods
to improve
the
scarring
by individualizing treatment for a specific
patient. Some patients may see results by use of chemical peels
while others require dermabrasion or laser abrasion. Before any
procedures are attempted to alleviate scarring it is very important
that the
acne be well under control.
What is the best way to treat acne?
Acne must be treated on an individual basis. Different remedies
work for different people.
There are several all natural and medicinal treatments that are
safe and free of side effects. If you have tried numerous products
and have not had a noticeable improvement,
consider
seeing
a dermatologist.
What products are available for the treatment of acne?
Some products that have shown to
have proven results are:
How long before I see a visible result
from using my acne medication?
The time frame for noticeable improvement depends greatly on the
product being used. In nearly all situations typically treatment
must be carried out for 4 to 8 weeks before any visible results
are achieved. It is important to be aware of this time frame so
that patients are not discouraged and discontinue medication. On
the other hand, if no change whatsoever is apparent after this
time frame, you might want to check with your dermatologist in
regards to changing treatments.
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