Learn about 10 facts about acne, including its symptoms, causes, and treatment. Find out how to manage acne and when to see a doctor for prescription medication. Get tips on preventing breakouts and maintaining healthy skin.
Here goes.
It affects most people at some point. It causes spots, oily skin and sometimes skin that is hot or painful to touch. Acne most commonly develops on the:
Acne is caused by overactive oil glands in the skin and a buildup of oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria; which leads to inflammation (swelling and redness) in the pores.
Oil glands get stimulated when hormones become active during puberty. That is why people are likely to get acne in their teens.
Because the tendency to develop acne is partly genetic, if other people in your family had (or have) acne, you may be more likely to have it as well.
No. It usually goes away in adult life.
There are different types:
There is no fool-proof way to prevent acne. But these tips might help reduce the number and severity of your breakouts:
Over-the-counter (OTC) products will control acne in most teens. Go to your local pharmacy for advice.
It may take time to find one that works best for you – some may not help and others may irritate skin. OTC acne products come in different strengths.
The most popular and effective OTC treatment is benzoyl peroxide. Another drug, salicylic acid, can also help dry up pimples.
See a GP if your acne is moderate or severe, or medicine from your pharmacy has not worked, as you probably need prescription medicine.
Prescription medicines that can be used to treat acne include:
If you have severe acne, or prescription medicines are not working, your GP can refer you to a hospital consultant who is expert in treating skin conditions (called a dermatologist).
If you are taking a prescription medicine for acne, finish your entire prescription even if your skin clears up, unless your doctor says it is OK to stop. If you stop too early, there is a chance your acne could break out all over again.
It is tempting, but popping or squeezing a pimple usually will not get rid of the problem. Squeezing can actually push infected material and pus deeper into the skin, which can lead to more swelling and redness and even scarring, which can be permanent.
Eating nutritious foods can help keep you healthy and your skin will benefit from getting enough vitamins and minerals.
But you do not need obsess about what you eat or how often you wash your face to control acne. If no OTC product works for you, talk to your doctor (or dermatologist) about how to manage acne.
We have described 10 facts about acne, focusing on its symptoms, causes and treatment. We hope you understand it better now.