Do you really know all about Acne?
Do you really know all about Acne?
Skin care is not just a routine, it is a necessity that requires tremendous amount of care and attention. By virtue of the increasing pollution levels, acne is something all of us face at some point of our lives. In places like Singapore, with a harsh weather to deal with, one also has to deal with sunburns, skin breakouts, rashes and acne along with many others. However, the most prevalent issue is acne, affecting more than 85% of the population! And that is why an acne facial could be your best choice.
What is acne?
Acne vulgaris or as we commonly call it acne is a chronic skin condition that affects approximately 85% of beings at some point of their lives. Acne typically takes over the skin when pores get clogged with bacteria, sebum or dead skin cells. They are usually red protrusions filled with pus that appear on the skin and can be quite painful at times.
Each skin pore consists of a hair follicle and a sebaceous gland that produces sebum, our skin’s natural oil. The human body is continuously creating and shedding skin cells, but when the dead skin cells get trapped within this sebum, non-inflammatory acne is produced. It is those tiny bumps on the skin that we call black heads and white heads that come under this category.
When the dead skin cells combine with bacteria and oil and an infection is produced, it is termed as inflammatory acne. These can be tiny or large red bumps on the skin often filled with pus. Papules and pustules are the two main types of inflammatory acne. Papules are red and hard while pustules generally have a white head surrounded with irritated, red skin.
However, the most severe type of acne is the cystic acne, which consists of cysts and nodules. This acne forms deep under the skin and is extremely painful, large and red too. Dermatologists are most concerned when faced with the problem of cystic acne as it has high possibilities of causing permanent scars. Hormonal imbalance too can cause cystic acne.
A few other factors that cause acne:
Genetics: People with a family history of acne are more prone to breakouts. Acne can be hereditary.
Surroundings and environment: Polluted air, increased humidity and harsh sun can result in breakouts frequently.
Hormonal changes and imbalances: An increased level of androgens in the body may lead to acne. Teens and pregnant women often face acne due to hormonal imbalances and fluctuating hormones.
Some more factors: Improper diet, certain medication, dirty hands etc.
How to treat acne?
Skin care is a must and what is more important is paying close attention to hygiene. Moreover, in order to deal with climate caused skin issues, acne facial is something you will want to opt for. If you have white heads and black heads, you must work on unclogging your pores and keeping your skin free of bacteria and dead skin. A cleanser with salicylic acid will help you tremendously as it reaches deep into your pores, soothing active acne and preventing it in the future.
If you have papules and pustules, benzoyl peroxide can help you a lot. However, if your skin is sensitive to the latter, you can consider trying sulfur which also prevents the growth of bacteria, thus preventing further acne.
Further, you must be very careful about your sheets and towels as they can be breeding grounds for bacteria that irritate your skin. Make sure to wash your hands regularly and always use a clean, soft napkin for your face.