Adolescence is a time of many changes. And acne commonly accompanies some of those changes. Almost universal, acne affects practically everyone at some point. In almost all instances acne clears up and leaves the skin smooth and normal. But, in some instances it leaves holes or marks in the skin.
What precisely is acne? It is a condition of the sebaceous glands. These glands excrete sebum, an oily substance, that should flow through pores towards the surface of the skin. This sebum consists of fats (triglycerides and fatty acids), wax and remains of dead fat-producing cells.
Blockages in the pores and infections of these sebaceous glands produce acne. Puberty is a time when hormones like testosterone are prevalent in adolescents. Testosterone helps cause acne. This happens for young people of both genders. Anxiety produces hormones, like cortisol, that additionally helps cause acne. After adolescence acne tends to go away. Nevertheless, for a few people it remains well into their forties.
Blackheads and whiteheads are common during adolescence. Contrary to common belief, these are not attributable to a lack of hygiene. More accurately, these are the result of excess oils which have accumulated in the sebaceous gland’s duct. When the duct is partly open, oxygen can get at the sebum causing it to oxidize and darken, making a blackhead. Oils where the opening is closed or shut remain lighter in color and are called whiteheads, pimples or zits.
Over-the-counter medications are frequently sufficient to help clean up acne. More severe acne may require stronger drugs approved by a physician. Common OTC medications used as a mild acne treatment include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and an antibacterial, Triclosan. You can get these medications as a cream or gel and they will help remove clogs and let the pores drain properly. Any bacterial infections can be dealt with after the pores are unblocked. Prior to applying the cream or gel, it will be best to clean your skin with a solution that is not alkaline, as most soaps are. This will allow the cream or gel to directly come in contact with your skin to function most effectively.
Your family medical professional or a dermatologist can help if the OTC solutions prove ineffective. A physician can prescribe stronger drugs that will help eliminate more severe acne outbreaks. Your dermatologist can perform a range of procedures like dermabrasion that removes surface skin, light therapy, laser treatment, or surgery.
As described above, acne is a typical, almost universal condition. It will go away and shortly be a remote memory. Easy treatment options for affected areas usually are effective.
Latest Acne Amazon productsSalicylic Acid 20% Gel Peel, 30ml (Professional)
Entry Level Professional Strength Peel; approx. 15 full facial peels per bottle
Ideal for acne, hyperpigmentation and premature aging, unclogs and reduce appearance of pores
Effectively treats stubborn skin conditions, such as acne and environmental/sun damage
Evens skin tone and minimizing areas of discoloration for all skin types
Cumulative benefits and optimal results with weekly treatments
The outside layer of your skin is covered in oil, and being oil soluble, the Salicylic acid is able to penetrate this outer layer.
Salicylic/20 peel breaks down the protein bonds between the layers of skin, which is why a much quicker peel can be achieved.
For acne, the Salicylic acid has several properties that make it a very effective treatment for acne.
Salicylic/20 peel acts as an anti-inflammatory and helps to immediately reduce acne spots
Salicylic/20 peel is effective at reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improving overall facial texture because it exfoliates both the skin…
Salicylic Acid 20% Gel Peel, 30ml (Professional)
