May 31, 2006
Types Of Acne
There are many forms of acne. It ranges from mild to severe and can be found on various parts of the body. Mild acne can usually be self treated, but severe cases are best left to health professionals like dermatologists.
The most common type of acne is Acne Vulgaris which literally means 'common acne.' This type of acne can cause blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules and cysts.
Blackheads - Blackheads occur in partially blocked pores. Sebum (the substance which causes oily skin), dead cells, and bacteria are slowly draining to the surface of the skin and the black color is caused by the pigments in the skin being exposed to air. Blackheads can take a long time to clear up.
Whiteheads - Unlike blackheads, whiteheads are contained beneath the surface of the skin. They are caused by completely blocked pores which trap the sebum, dead cells, and bacteria.
Papules - These are small red bumps on the skin. They are tender and cause irritation, but it is important not to touch them or squeeze them. Doing so may cause scarring.
Pustules - Pustules are what most people call pimples or zits. They appear as a red circle with a white or yellow center.
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Cysts - Cysts are similar to nodules except that they are filled with pus. They are painful and likely to scar if untreated. Like nodules, they should be treated by a dermatologist.
Acne Conglobata - This is a relatively rare form of acne vulgaris but it is extremely disfiguring and can cause severe psychological as well as physical suffering. Large lesions form on the face, chest, back, buttocks, upper arms, and thighs and can be accompanied by numerous blackheads. It causes damage to the skin and permanent scarring. It is more common in males than females, and the condition can persist for several years.
Acne Fulminans - This is a sudden appearance of Acne Conglobata accompanied with a fever and aching of the joints. It is usually treated with oral steroids.
Gram-Negative Folliculitis - This condition may be caused by long-term treatment of acne with antibiotics. It is a bacterial infection which causes pustules and cysts.
Pyoderma Faciale - This type of acne only affects females usually between the ages of 20 and 40. It causes large painful pustules, nodules and cysts on the face and may leave permanent scarring. It most often occurs in women who have never experienced acne before and usually clears up within a year.
Acne Rosacea - This form of acne usually affects people over the age of 30. It causes a red rash on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. There may also be pimples and other skin blemishes. It occurs more often in females than males, although men often have more severe symptoms. It is a different form of acne than Acne Vulgaris and treatment is different for the two types.
Posted by KeyWest at 12:29 AM | Comments (0)
May 30, 2006
Acne Treatments - OTC Topical Medications
There are many types of over-the-counter treatments for acne. Most people, when first faced with an acne condition, usually go to the local pharmacy and buy an over-the-counter medication on the basis of recommendations from their friends or perhaps even television ads. It's always a good idea, however, to consult with a doctor before using any kind of over-the-counter medication. Even though acne is a fairly benign condition, a doctor can advise on the best course of treatment and also offers suggestions based on your particular kind of acne.
Because of the large number of products available for treating acne, it can be difficult to decide which one to try. Depending on advice from your friends is not too reliable, because what works for one person may not work for another. It's best if you have some background knowledge about the active ingredients in various acne medications, so you can make a better informed choice about which medication to try.
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Benzoyl peroxide has been proven to be safe and effective in combating lesions. It can be used after acne has cleared up to keep the skin free from acne causing bacteria. The only side effect associated with this ingredient is dry skin, and this can be avoided by decreasing the frequency that it is applied on the skin. It can also bleach hair and clothing, so care must be taken when applying it.
Another popular ingredient in acne medications is salicylic acid. This prevents acne by clearing up dead skin cells which are accumulating too quickly and clogging the pores. Products which contain salicylic acid should continue to be used after the skin has cleared up to prevent future outbreaks of acne. The only side effects associated with salicylic acid are dry, irritated skin.
Other ingredients you may see in acne medications include resorcinol and sulphur. Resorcinol causes the top layer of skin to peel -- including the dead skin cells which clog the pores. It is often combined with sulphur. It is not known how sulphur affects acne conditions, but it has been used effectively for more than 50 years. Sulphur is often combined with other ingredients besides resorcinol like salicylate acid and benzoyl peroxide. It is not usually used by itself because of its strong, unpleasant odor.
Of all these ingredients used for combating acne, benzoyl peroxide is probably the most versatile. It can be used in cleansing liquids or bars, as well as lotion, cream, and gels which are applied directly on the skin. The cleansing products are usually used once or twice a day, while the creams and lotions can be used as needed. They should be applied on the skin around the acne as well as the pimples themselves for most effectiveness. You must avoid getting benzoyl peroxide in the eyes, mouth or nose as it will cause irritation or inflammation.
Posted by KeyWest at 10:31 AM | Comments (0)
May 29, 2006
Prescription Acne Treatments
Many people try to treat acne conditions on their own without consulting a doctor. However, it is always a good idea to check with a dermatologist when you notice any kind of unusual skin condition. Even if it turns out to be acne, the doctor can give you valuable information and advice about how to treat it.
Mild and moderate conditions of acne can often be treated with over-the-counter medications, but severe cases should be treated by a dermatologist and prescription medicine. Even if the acne is moderate, a prescription medicine may be more effective than what is available over-the-counter.
There are two types of prescription acne medications -- oral and topical. Antibiotics are often used to fight acne, and they can be taken orally or as a lotion. Topical prescription medications may include ingredients such as zinc or retinoids.
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Women taking tetracycline can suffer from increased incidences of vaginal yeast. Pregnant women and children under the age of 12 cannot take tetracycline because it discolours growing teeth.
Ointments -- Antibiotic ointments have fewer complications than oral antibiotics. They are effective in killing bacteria which cause acne, and when used in conjunction with other topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide the bacteria may not develop resistance to the antibiotics.
Retinoids -- Retinoids are derived from vitamin A and can be applied directly on the skin in the form of lotions or creams. Topical retinoid medications are useful for treating blackheads and whiteheads by helping to open clogged pores. A common side effect of topical retinoids is dry skin.
Oral retinoids can be used for more severe forms of acne which don't respond to other treatments. Oral retinoids cause the upper layer of the skin to peel thereby opening pores. They also cause the body to produce less sebum – the substance which causes oily skin.
A number of serious side effects are associated with oral retinoids. They can cause birth defects if mothers are taking them when pregnant, so females must use two forms of birth control if they are under retinoid treatment. They can also cause liver damage and depression, so regular medical attention is needed to make sure the patient is not being adversely affected by retinoid treatment.
Other medications – Birth control pills are sometimes effective in treating acne in women. They change hormone levels in the body and can reduce the acne causing effects of testosterone. Zinc is a relatively new treatment that is effective in some cases. Always discuss with your dermatologist for the most effective treatment for your particular case.
Posted by KeyWest at 12:35 AM | Comments (0)
May 28, 2006
Herbal Acne Treatments
Herbal Remedies and Natural Treatments for Acne
If someone could figure out a way to prevent acne, that person would be very wealthy because people all over the world would stand in line to buy the solution. But so far, the way to prevent acne remains a mystery.
While ointments, soaps and lotions remain by far the most popular acne treatment options, perhaps hundreds of companies in business right now are offering herbal remedies for acne and natural acne treatments. Do these products work?
The manufacturers of these products claim they do. They offer plenty of testimonials from satisfied customers but they come up short on scientific data. And unfortunately, there aren't any governing bodies in charge of validating their health-related claims. Does this lack of legislative oversight make a product good or bad? The answer depends on whom you ask and what you believe.
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Throughout the centuries, civilizations ate only the foods that came from the earth or that they raised on their farms. Life was more difficult and life spans were definitely shorter but these people overall were very healthy. Why? Many believe the reason for this better state of health is because they did not fill their bodies with processed ingredients, harsh pesticides and other potentially dangerous combinations of chemicals.
So how do you decide whether herbal remedies and natural treatments for acne are effective? The only thing you really can do is research this issue. Find out which herbs and natural ingredients have been shown to be effective in treating acne and then find skin care products that include them. Then try these products for yourself and measure your own results.
For example, dermatologists typically recommend antibiotics because bacteria are a main cause of acne. But did you know that several natural products have shown promise in fighting bacteria? Echinacea and Tea Tree oil are two of the more common natural remedies for acne. A dermatologist may be able to give you more information on herbal remedies and natural treatments for acne and if yours won't, it might be time to find someone who will.
If you're willing to look, you'll find plenty of clay masks, facial peels and gentle abrasives made from all-natural ingredients. If you take time to find a reputable company and to also read the ingredients label, you'll find plenty of natural options for treating your acne.
Posted by KeyWest at 01:07 AM | Comments (0)
May 27, 2006
Acne And Diet
Does Your Diet Really Affect Acne?
Whether or not a person's diet affects the presence or absence of acne is one of life's greatest debates. There are as many people who claim a relationship exists between acne and diet as there are those who swear no such relationship exists. So which way of thinking is right? Will you really break out if you eat too much chocolate or too many greasy, high-fat foods?
The Great Debate is Over
As much as we wish it could be true, to date there is no scientific evidence that links what you eat to the development of acne. Acne isn't caused by eating too much pizza or French fries or by drinking too much soda. Acne is caused by the oils that are produced by overly-active sebaceous glands beneath the skin, but these oils are very different from the oils that are used in food preparation. So next time your mother, friend or other family member tries to tell you otherwise, it's okay for you not to believe what they're saying.
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Do Watch What You Eat
Even though there might not be a scientifically-proven connection between acne and food, there are many health- and nutrition-related reasons for limiting your intake of processed, fried, high-fat foods and those tasty sweet treats that are made from refined carbohydrates. Those types of foods have been proven to cause heart disease, a condition that is far more serious than acne. That reason all by itself should be enough to make every person, regardless of race, sex or age, change their eating habits.
A diet that is the right balance of vitamins and nutrients can greatly reduce the risk of heart trouble. Such a diet will leave you feeling more energized and may even slow down the effects of aging (the debate on this issue still rages). Equally important, a balanced diet is the most effective way to lose weight and keep it off, and that claim has also been proven.
What really happens when the body is fed a nutritionally-balanced diet is that it is more capable of performing at optimum capacity. When the body feels better, it acts better, and it's only a short time until it looks better too. So go ahead and start adding more fiber, anti-oxidant-rich fruits and vegetables and complex carbohydrates to your diet and start reaping the benefits. You might find that glowing, blemish-free skin is one way your body benefits from eating a proper diet!
Posted by KeyWest at 01:03 AM | Comments (0)
May 26, 2006
Birth Control Pill And Acne
How the Birth Control Pill and Pregnancy Affect Acne
Acne first develops during adolescence, when hormone levels begin to surge. This deluge of hormones causes the sebaceous glands to go into overdrive. They begin producing increased levels of sebaceous oils that often become clogged inside the glands. When the oils can't escape, acne develops.
If fluctuating hormone levels within the body trigger an increase in sebaceous oil production, it makes sense then that any time a person's hormone level is altered there's an increased chance that an outbreak of acne will occur. With women, acne flare-ups are common while they are taking birth control pills and also when they become pregnant.
Using the Birth Control Pill to Control Acne
Women who do take the birth control pill and who notice that their acne is getting worse should discuss the situation with their doctor. Different brands of oral contraception have different levels of hormones and one side effect of some brands is an increase in acne. Switching to another brand can bring acne back under control.
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It's important to note that taking the birth control pill as a way to treat acne is an option that is best pursued only after all other acne treatment options have been attempted without success. The birth control pill does have side effects and it must be taken exactly as prescribed to be effective.
Acne During Pregnancy
Women who have become pregnant often report an increase in acne, too. Many changes occur within a woman's body in an effort to properly prepare the body for the growing fetus. The two primary female hormones at work in every woman's body are progesterone and estrogen. During pregnancy, progesterone becomes the dominant hormone, taking on new roles as the fetus develops. But progesterone is more androgenic than estrogen, which basically means it is more like the hormones found in men. Increased progesterone during pregnancy causes the sebaceous glands to produce more sebaceous oils than normal and that is what can cause outbreaks of acne.
If it's possible, the best way to handle acne during pregnancy is to realize that it is a short-term problem that will usually go away once the baby is born. If this isn't possible, discuss your options over with a dermatologist who has experience working with patients during their pregnancy. After discussing your situation, the dermatologist will be able to suggest treatment options that'll make you happier with your appearance and that won't harm your baby.
Posted by KeyWest at 01:00 AM | Comments (0)
May 25, 2006
Acne Issues for Babies and Young People
If your newborn or infant breaks out with a case of acne, don't panic! It's quite normal. Usually the acne will clear up all by itself and there's rarely a need to use any medications or call your doctor.
Babies, especially newborns, often get acne bumps that are caused by natural skin oil becoming trapped in hair follicles. While mostly found on the cheeks, it's not uncommon for babies to have acne on their forehead or chin as well.
Just continue to bathe your baby as normal using a clean and soft washcloth and your normal baby soap as long as it is hypoallergenic. Otherwise, switch brands to something that is.
If the condition appears to worsen, or it doesn't clear up within a few weeks, then ask your doctor for advice.
Adolescent and Teen Acne Issues
While the occasional blemish can break out at any age, persistent acne usually begins about the same time your child enters puberty.
Forget the old wifes tales about eating too much chocolate or oily foods. Adolescent and teen acne results from a natural increase in body oil which becomes trapped in pores. And it's not about failure to wash the face enough either. In fact, washing too much can actually irritate the skin, clog the pores, and cause more acne.
Child Acne Prevention and Treatment
While prevention may not be possible, you can reduce the appearance of your child's acne by encouraging him or her to gently wash twice a day using warm water, a soft facecloth and a mild hypoallergenic soap.
If your daughter wears makeup, help her to choose cosmetics which are labeled 'noncomedogenic' since they are specially formulated not to promote acne. Also encourage her to never go to bed without removing her makeup. Tell your child that 'popping' just makes things worse.
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The percentage of available benzol peroxide varies among brands. Choose a product with the highest concentration possible, but always test a dab on an inconspicuous portion of your child's body to see if there is any reaction.
If you do not see a marked improvement within 4-6 weeks after treatment begins, take your child to their regular doctor for an exam and treatment advice. There is no need to head straight to a dermatologist unless your child's regular doctor suggests it.
There is no convenient time for an acne breakout in children. Be available to provide the emotional support that your child will need to help him or her through the social stigma that comes with acne. It's a lot bigger deal to them than it is to us.
Posted by KeyWest at 12:58 AM | Comments (0)
May 24, 2006
Acne Scar Removal and Treatment
At some point in life, almost everyone experiences acne. For some, acne is nothing more than an annoying and sometimes embarrassing rite of passage that occurs during adolescence, when hormone levels surge. Others unfortunately suffer extreme bouts of acne. Either situation can however, result in mild or severe acne scarring.
Several different acne scarring treatments are available. These work to help the scarred area return to a more 'normal' appearance because most acne scars, like any type of scarring, can almost never be permanently removed.
The available treatment options differ considerably in their approach and what's right for a person will depend on several factors including the type and extent of scarring involved, an evaluation of how the scarring is impacting the person's livelihood and the individual's budget. It's always advisable to thoroughly discuss treatment options with a dermatologist before making a decision.
Causes of Acne Scars
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Treatment Options
Injecting collagen into the scar site is an effective method for most people however it's one that'll need to be repeated regularly, about every 3 – 6 months. Once injected under the skin, the collagen puffs out the scar area, making the scar less noticeable.
A similar process involves using a person's own body fat. This treatment option is called autologus fat transfer. Basically, fat is taken from another part of the body and injected into the acne scar, causing it to fill out. This option also does need to be repeated, although less frequently, because the fat will begin to absorb back into the skin.
Dermabrasion is a common treatment method for most types of acne scarring. It's done under local anesthesia. In this procedure, a thin layer of surface skin is removed using a fraise or a brush set on high speed. Removing the surface layer can actually remove some shallow scarring at the surface and it can lessen the depth of deeper scarring. Microdermabrasion also removes the surface skin but does so using crystals of aluminum oxide that pass through a vacuum.
Laser treatment is another acne scar treatment option. Lasers of various intensity and wavelength are aimed at the scarring with the goal of changing a scar's shape. Depending on the scar, permanent results can sometimes be achieved. Again, multiple treatments may be necessary.
Other acne treatment options are available including skin grafting and skin surgery, but these extreme procedures are reserved primarily for deep scarring or extreme situations.
Posted by KeyWest at 08:56 PM | Comments (0)
May 23, 2006
Acne and Makeup
OK, so your new acne medication promises fast results in 7 days, but you've got to put your best face forward today. Is there anything you can do besides stepping out your front door wearing a ski mask?
You bet there is. All you need is to learn a few creative acne makeup concealing tips to help you look your very best at school, work or play.
Remember -- Makeup conceals acne, it doesn't cure it!
But you already knew that, right? Using makeup to conceal acne isn't difficult, but there are some basic rules that you should always follow.
Your basic acne makeup toolkit
Your three acne-hiding makeup weapons will be a concealer, a foundation and a finishing powder. Stay away from the dollar store and use only brand names that you can trust.
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If this is the first time that you are using a new brand, test the makeup applying small dabs to a spot under your jaw to see how your skin reacts. If you are going to have a problem you'll know within an hour or so after applying it. Nothing's worse than adding more blotches to an already colorful face.
Before you begin
Wash your face with your normal face cleansing product and pat dry. Apply your acne medication per the instructions and let it dry throughly.
Start with the concealer
Apply the concealer in a light dabbing motion directly to any dark blotches or red areas that the acne has produced on your skin. Blend the concealer in using a disposable facial sponge. Use the concealer sparingly. You can always apply more if you need it but you don't want to layer it on too thickly. It will look terrible when it dries.
Next, apply the foundation
Apply the foundation sparingly as well and use a light dabbing motion here too. Blend the foundation with your sponge and reapply to any areas that need it.
And now for the final touch
Apply a light layer of the oil-free powder using a large makeup brush. This will take care of any shine that the acne concealer and foundation left behind and it will give you an even and finished look.
Throw away the disposable sponges when you are through so you don't transfer yesterday's skin oil to tomorrow's clean face!
Before you go to bed:
Wash your face throughly to remove all makeup before you go to bed, but preferably as soon as you can after you return home. You want your skin to breath and your acne to get as much fresh air as possible.
Posted by KeyWest at 12:52 AM | Comments (0)
May 22, 2006
Acne Skin Care
Skin care is important at any time of life but especially so if you have acne. One of the secrets for keeping acne under control is maintaining the health of the skin as much as possible. This means keeping the skin clean and protecting it from sources of damage like sunshine and harsh cosmetics. Cleaning the skin...
Use a gentle soap or specialized skin cleaner for washing the face once or twice a day. It is important not to scrub the skin as this will further aggravate the acne. Just use a soft cloth to moisten the face and then apply the cleanser to all areas from the hairline to the neck. Rinse the cleanser with plenty of water and pat your face dry with a soft towel.
Those with especially oily skin may need to use an astringent, but it must be used with care. Only apply it to the parts of the face which are most oily and discontinue use if your skin becomes irritated. It is best to consult with a dermatologist if you feel you need to use an astringent.
Hair care is also an important part of skin care. Shampoo your hair two or three times a week and try to keep it off your face as much as possible. Those with oily hair may need to wash their hair once a day.
Protect Your Skin from the Sun
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Choose Makeup with Care
The best choice for good skin care is to wear no makeup at all, but if you feel you must wear makeup choose some that will not clog the pores. These products are labeled noncomedogenic, but they may still cause acne in some people. Above all, avoid makeup with an oil base. Read the labels carefully and use sparingly.
Shaving
Try both electric razors and safety razors to see which is more comfortable. Don't use safety razors with dull blades -- change the blade every two or three shaves. You may have to shave around blemishes to avoid cutting them, and be sure to soften the beard as much as possible with water and shaving cream. If you happen have a lot of breakouts perhaps it is best to skip shaving that day.
Avoid Touching the Skin
As tempting as it may be too squeeze and pop those pimples, don't do it! You are only inviting more trouble because the bacteria which causes pimples will spread. Popping pimples can also lead to permanent scarring.
Try to avoid touching your face as much as possible. Many people do this unconsciously, but the hands are dirty and oily and can spread germs over greater areas of your skin. Acne can be brought under control. Medications are a great help in clearing up the skin and combating the bacteria which causes acne, but be sure to help it along as much as possible by taking good care of your skin.
Posted by KeyWest at 02:49 AM | Comments (0)
May 21, 2006
Teen Acne And Parents
Since acne is such a common condition, parents of teenage children are sure to have experienced it themselves. As adults, we know that acne will pass, but this is small comfort to teenagers who are suffering from the embarrassment of acne. Parents need to be morally supportive, but also need to be a source of information and advice about how to treat acne.
One of the best ways for parents to help their children is to learn as much as possible about the various types of acne and how it can be treated. Armed with this knowledge you can help your teenager make appropriate decisions about medications or whether or not to consult with the dermatologist.
Just because you had acne when you were a teenager doesn't make you an expert. New medications and new methods of treatment have been developed so that most common acne conditions can be brought under control. There are a variety of approaches, so knowing what is available will help you decide which is best for your child.
Consulting with a dermatologist is always a good idea for any skin condition. Those spots that appear on your teenager's skin are most likely to be acne, but there are other skin conditions that resemble it. Consulting with a dermatologist will give you a definite diagnosis and also provide you with as many treatment options as possible.
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Most likely, your teenager is trying everything he or she can to control the acne. Even if they don't want to talk about it, it most likely is one of their major concerns. After all, acne can affect self image and sociability and in severe cases can lead to depression and withdrawal.
Let your teenager know that you are available and that you are willing to help him or her with their acne. Talking about your own experiences may help and certainly can't hurt – it may give your teenager a broader perspective on the condition.
Even though it may be small comfort, remind your child that most teenagers suffer from acne -- they are not alone. It is estimated that 85% of adolescents have acne, and 40% have acne severe enough to need treatment by a dermatologist. If, after trying a few over-the-counter medications without success, encourage your child to go to a dermatologist. Medical treatments can include oral medicines, physical treatments, and ointments and lotions which are applied directly on the acne. These treatments can help clear up the acne while offering relief from the physical discomfort it causes.
Acne does not last forever. As your child gets older the acne should become less of a problem, and by the time they are in their early 20s should be a thing of the past.
Posted by KeyWest at 08:44 PM | Comments (0)
May 20, 2006
Acne Scars
Most people with mild or moderate acne will recover from the condition without serious scarring. In cases of severe acne, however, scarring is almost inevitable. But don't give up hope -- new acne treatments can minimize scarring and existing scars can be removed with a variety of techniques.
Most pimples leave behind a discolored patch of skin. This is not really a scar and will usually clear up by itself within one year. Marks or skin defects that remain longer than one year are considered to be scars and can be treated.
Preventing Scars
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Mild cases of acne can usually be self treated with over-the-counter medications but more severe cases should be treated by a dermatologist. The doctor can prescribe oral medications as well as topical ointments for use on the skin. In some cases, the doctor will also physically remove blackheads or whiteheads and lance and drain pus filled nodules. The dermatologist uses surgical instruments which have been sterilized, so these procedures should never be attempted at home.
Pimples form on the skin because of the presence of bacteria. The bacteria damages and inflames the skin. Once the acne has cleared up, the skin may appear discolored -- this is part of the natural healing process, and the discolorment will disappear after a period of time.
This healing process can be sped up with the use of medications like Retin-A, Renova, and Alpha-Hydroxy Acids. Sunshine can damage the skin and thereby delay the healing process, so sunscreens should always be worn outside.
Above all, avoid picking scabs that may form over old acne lesions. Scabs are a necessary part of the healing process and picking them off unnecessarily exposes the skin which extends the time necessary for scars to heal.
Treating Scars
Existing scars left over from acne can be treated in a number of ways. If scars are not too severe, a chemical peel can be applied to the skin. This effectively removes the microscopic top layer of the skin allowing the cells underneath to rejuvenate.
More severe scarring can be treated with lasers or dermabrasion. Lasers remove the damaged layer of skin and tighten the skin underneath to raise the depression caused by the scar. The process can be mildly painful so the dermatologist may use an anesthetic to numb the pain. The healing process after laser treatment takes about 3 to 10 days.
Dermabrasion removes scars by actually scraping away the surface of the skin where the scarring occurs. During the healing process a new layer of skin is formed to replace the scarring. Both dermabrasion and laser treatments can cause the skin to turn red, but this discolorment will disappear after several months.
Posted by KeyWest at 12:47 AM | Comments (0)
May 19, 2006
Dermatologist Acne Treatment
Even though mild acne isn't a serious condition it is a good idea to see a dermatologist if your skin breaks out. You can receive valuable information about the cause of acne as well as learning about the options for treatment. In addition, there is a condition called keratosis pilaris that is sometimes confused with acne, so seeing a dermatologist can determine which condition you actually have so that you are not wasting time with inappropriate treatments.
Mild conditions of acne can be effectively treated with over-the-counter medications but more severe cases need the attention of a doctor. Acne can cause physical as well as emotional suffering and can lead to permanent scarring if not properly treated. When acne is not responding to over-the-counter medications you should consult with a dermatologist for treatment.
It is a good idea to prepare for your first consultation by writing down as much information about your acne as possible. The doctor will want to know the background -- how long you have had acne, what form it takes (blackheads, whiteheads, lesions etc.) and what you have done to treat it. You may also be asked if your parents or siblings had acne and how severe it was for them.
Since the acne treatment may include oral medications you should be prepared to tell the doctor if you are allergic to certain medicines. Girls may be asked to describe their menstrual period and boys may need to say how often they shave.
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Topical treatments include benzoyl peroxide and retinoic acid. These are usually prescribed in gel form and may cause dryness or reddening of the skin.
In severe cases of acne physical treatments may be recommended. These include the removal of blackheads and whiteheads and the drainage of cysts.
No matter which form of treatment you decide on it is important to follow directions given by the doctor. Don't take more or less of a medication than prescribed. If your acne clears up, continue treatment until advised otherwise, otherwise it may come back.
Always be informed about your condition and get the information you require. Write down questions as you think of them so that you can ask your doctor at your next consultation. Common questions include:
· What kind of treatment is best for me?
· How soon will I start to see results?
· How long will the treatment last?
· Are there any side effects?
· How should I care for my skin?
· Can I use makeup?
· How can I prevent acne scars?
Treatment for severe acne may continue for some time. Each time you see your doctor take the opportunity to clear up any questions or concerns you have about acne or your treatment. Try to become as well-informed as possible so that you can participate fully in your acne treatment.
Posted by KeyWest at 09:41 PM | Comments (0)
May 18, 2006
Physical Acne Treatments
Mild acne conditions are usually best treated by topical ointments. More severe cases may be treated in a variety of ways including oral antibiotics, ointments, and physical treatments such as chemical peels and drainage.
Physical treatments must be conducted by a dermatologist. Although popping pimples is a form of physical treatment, it is ill-advised. It can cause acne-causing bacteria to spread and may lead to scarring. Physical treatments done under controlled conditions (i.e. in a doctor's office) minimize risk while providing the best outcome.
Exfoliation
The top layer of skin can be removed either chemically or with abrasion. Chemical peels are usually done with salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These work by destroying a microscopic layer of skin cells to unclog pores and remove the build-up of dead cells. The same effect can be achieved by using an abrasive cloth or liquid scrub. Glycolic acid treatments can be done every two to four weeks over a period of about six months, but salicylic acid treatments are milder and are often included in over-the-counter medications. They can be used on a daily basis.
Comedo Extraction
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Drainage
Severe acne can sometimes cause cysts to form under the skin. These cysts can be painful and disfiguring. Smaller cysts can be treated with cortisone injections which flatten the lesion in a day or two. Larger cysts may need to be drained and surgically removed. Drainage can help relieve the pain associated with cysts and also reduce the chance of scarring. It is performed in the dermatologist's office with sterile instruments. It is important not to try to drain cysts by yourself because of the risk of infection which could lead to permanent scarring.
Light Therapy
Light therapy is sometimes used to combat the acnes bacteria that cause acne. It is particularly useful in treating hard-to-reach areas but may have a short-term effect because it does not do anything about the production of sebum or the accumulation of dead skin cells.
Laser therapy is useful for treating the scars caused by acne. It can be used for both surface-level scarring as well as deep tissue scarring caused by serious acne conditions. Research is currently being conducted on the use of lasers for acne treatment. Several approaches are being examined – burning away the follicle sac which produces the hair; burning away the gland which produces sebum; and forming oxygen in the bacteria to kill them. It is not yet known if laser acne treatment can cause permanent damage to the skin.
Posted by KeyWest at 12:38 AM | Comments (0)
