Mild acne, though is not a serious condition, it is always better to consult a dermatologist for acne break-out. You can get valuable information about the cause of acne as well as learn about the options for treatment. Also, a condition called keratosis pilaris exists which is sometimes confused with acne. So, consulting with a dermatologist helps you determine as to which condition do you actually have. This way, you can prevent wasting time over inappropriate treatments.
Mild conditions of acne can be properly treated with over-the-counter medications but more severe cases demand the attention of a doctor. Acne can cause physical as well as emotional conditions and can lead to permanent scarring if not treated properly. When acne does not respond to over-the-counter medications you should consult with a dermatologist for treatment.
It is a better idea to prepare for your first consultation by writing down as much information about your acne as possible. The physician 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 cure it. You may be questioned if your parents or siblings had acne and how severe it was for them. It is better to tell the doctor if you are allergic to certain medicines. Girls may be asked to explain their menstrual period and boys may need to say how often they shave.
The dermatologist may offer different treatments so knowing a bit about the various options can help you make an informed decision. Antibiotics are used to control the bacteria that cause acne. Antibiotics can be given orally or in a lotion that is applied to the skin.
Topical treatments is made of benzoyl peroxide and retinoic acid. These are usually prescribed in gel form. In severe cases of acne, physical treatments may be what is needed. These are the removal of blackheads and whiteheads and the drainage of cysts. It is important to follow directions given by the doctor. Don't take more or less of a medication than prescribed. Always be informed about your condition and arrive the information you require. Write down questions that you may ask your doctor at your next consultation. Common questions include:
? What type of treatment is best for me? ? How soon will I get to see results? ? How long will the treatment continue? ? Are there any side effects? ? How should I look after my skin? ? Can I makeup? ? How can I stay away from acne scars?
Treatment for severe acne may last for some time. Each time you see your doctor, make sure to clear up any questions or concerns you have about acne or your treatment. Try to get as well-informed as possible so that you can participate fully in your acne treatment.
No scrubbing or rubbing. You can't scrub your acne away. In fact abrasive or frequent washing can lead to dry skin and irritated acne. Your skin will respond best to kind attention. Gently wash your face no more than twice a day with a mild cleanser and pat your skin dry with a clean towel. If you exercise hard and sweat a lot you may want to wash your face afterwards.
Don't pop pimples. Don't pop or squeeze pimples, as it could lead to inflammation and infection. It could also push the infected materials deep into the skin and create more swelling. Squeezing or popping pimples could lead to permanent scars on the face.
Breathe deeply. It is advisable to breathe deeply when you feel stressed. Doctors have found out that there is a direct link between stress and acne. Studies have shown that there is increased amount of androgen production when a person is under stress. Not only mental but physical stress such as allergies, surgery etc could activate the androgen production. When androgen is activated the sebaceous glands pumps out more oil/sebum leading to acne.
Use honey. Apply a honey mask once a week. Honey is regarded as a disinfectant and also it has medicinal properties believed to heal minor blemishes. It has the properties of destroying the bacteria present in the skin.
Pay kind attention to your skin. Use a mild cleanser no more than twice a day and gently wash and dry your skin. Apply a noncomedogenic (won't clog your pores) sunscreen.
Patience is a virtue. Be patient. Healing takes time. Unfortunately this doesn't happen overnight. Results are generally seen in a few weeks, but may take up to 8 weeks or more. Don't be tempted by over night promises. So give your acne treatment a fighting chance.
Use sunscreen. Many acne medications contain ingredients that can make your skin extra sensitive to sunlight and ultraviolet light from tanning booths. Read the label warnings, avoid tanning booths, and always use a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15. Sun exposure can actually irritate acne even if you are not using an acne medication. So don't make sunbathing a part of your lifestyle and always use sunscreen.
More is not better. If you use more acne medication than directed by your doctor you can actually worsen your acne. Many over-the-counter acne treatments contain active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Too much of either of these can cause your skin to become excessively dry or irritated. It can take time for your skin to adapt to new medications. Remember that it may take up to 8 weeks for any acne medication to have a noticeable effect. Use the medication exactly as directed by your doctor and if you don't see an improvement within 8 weeks talk with your dermatologist.
Use only noncomedogenic products. When purchasing cosmetics, sunscreen or other skin care products, make sure the label reads noncomedogenic. These products, as well as those labeled nonacnegenic, won't clog your pores and therefore won't cause or make your acne worse.
Here's the rub. Headbands and hats can aggravate your acne as they rub against your forehead. Try to avoid these things when possible.
Don't touch your face. It's amazing how often we touch our faces during an average day. Our hands have oil on them and of course bacteria too, both of which can make acne worse. So avoid touching your face or leaning your chin on your hand. Be sure that other objects that come in contact with your face like cell phones, telephone receivers, eye glasses, etc are clean.
Wash your face. It is advisable to wash your face at least twice a day with sulfur-based soap. Once when you wake up and again when you go to bed. Do not scrub; just give it a smooth touch. Washing your skin over and over again will create more trouble than help you.
Cut your hair. If you have long hair it is advisable to cut it short. Your hair contains oil and when you move, the dust particles do mix up with your hair and when your hair bangs on your face or neck or forehead or the affected area, the situation could worsen. Also wash your hair on a daily basis.
Eat fruits and vegetables. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables daily.
Drink lots of water. Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Water helps in cleaning and hydrating the skin and maintaining overall health.
Change your pillowcase. Wash or change your pillowcase every day.
Exercise. Exercise moderately as it helps in blood circulation and helps eliminate toxins.
Review your environment. Pollution, airborne grease (such as in a fast food restaurant), irritating clothing - all these can aggravate your acne. It isn't always possible to avoid all the various irritants that may contribute to your acne. You can, however, make educated decisions that may help to minimize their impact. Loosen tight, irritating clothing or find fabrics that breathe better and don't aggravate your acne.
Both Alien & Daniel Bell are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Alien has sinced written about articles on various topics from Pregnancy Problems, Fitness and Get Rid of Bed Bugs. Alien writes for . You can get more info on. Alien's top article generates over 673000 views. to your Favourites.
Daniel Bell has sinced written about articles on various topics from Work From Home, Acne Treatment and The Internet. Daniel Bell is a former acne sufferer, and webmaster of - a site dedicated to provi. Daniel Bell's top article generates over 3600 views. to your Favourites.