Often referred to as “spots”, “zits” or “pimples”, acne is a skin blemish – typically on the face – that can be very reoccurring if left untreated.
Q: What Are The Symptoms of Acne?
A: Acne appears on the parts of your skin with many oil glands. While most commonly found on the face, they can also be found on the back, neck, chest, and shoulders. They typically are small red bumps, often with a yellow center. Other forms are simply bumps, or dark bumps. Some can be very painful.
Q: What Causes Acne?
A: Three different things work together to produce acne: too much oil produced in your skin, the irritation of your hair follicles, and the extra buildup of bacteria on your skin. When hair follicles are plugged with oil and dead skin cells, that is when acne develops. How your skin reacts to this situation is what determines what kind of acne you develop. Inflammation and infection cause pustules, which have the yellow center. If the follicle wall bulges, you have a bumpy whitehead. The increased production of oil in your skin can be caused by hormones, heredity, bacteria, or even certain medications.
Q: How Do You Treat Acne?
A: Typical acne treatments include lotions to dry up the oil and kill bacteria. They typically involve substances such as salicylic acid. If you have serious acne, you may be prescribed a stronger treatment by your doctor. Some women have even found that oral contraceptives can improve acne.
Q: How Can You Prevent Acne?
A: Most acne prevention is intended to keep the face clean and oil production under control. You should clean your face regularly and apply a moisturizer to keep your skin from drying out. You may also wish to help clear up dead skin by exfoliating regularly.