ACNE OR PIMPLES
Acne may be mild (few, occasional pimples), moderate (inflammatory papules), or severe (nodules and cysts). Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
Acne is primarily a hormonal condition driven by male or ‘androgenic’ hormones, which typically become active during the teenage years. Sensitivity to such hormones, combined with bacteria on the skin, and fatty acids within oil glands, cause acne. Common sites for acne are the face, chest, shoulders, and back -- the sites of oil glands.
Acne lesions include whiteheads, blackheads, small bumps, and nodules and cysts. Though acne is essentially a normal physiologic occurrence, certain conditions may aggravate the condition, including:
Fluctuating hormone levels around the time of menses (women)
Manipulating (picking/prodding) acne lesions
Clothing (for example, hats and sports helmets) and headgear
Three types of drugs have proven to be effective for the treatment of acne -- benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and antibiotics. In particular combination of any two works better.
Benzoyl peroxide, available as an over-the-counter product (for example, Clearasil, Stridex) and by prescription (for example, Benoxyl, PanOxyl, Persagel), targets surface bacteria, which often aggravate acne. Irritation (dryness) is a common side effect.
Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), for example, Retin-A, Differin, Tazorac, treat blackheads and whiteheads, the first lesions of acne. The most common side effect is irritation.
Antibiotics, either topically applied to the skin (clindamycin, erythromycin), or taken orally (tetracycline and its derivatives) control surface bacteria and reduce inflammation in the skin. Antibiotics are more effective when combined with benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
Hormone therapy may be helpful for some women with acne, especially for those with signs and symptoms (irregular periods, thinning hair) of androgen (male hormone) excess. The hormone therapy consists of low-dose estrogen and progesterone
Acne Prevention Tips
Here are tips that may help control acne.
Don't over-wash or use harsh scrubs. Acne is not caused by dirt. Two gentle washings a day is enough. Too much cleaning can leave skin irritated and dry, triggering glands to produce more oil, increasing the likelihood of pimples.
Use oil-free or noncomedogenic products (those that won't clog pores) on your face.
Don't squeeze or pick blemishes. Popping pimples can drive acne bacteria deeper into the skin. Picking can lead to more inflammation and permanent scarring.
Don't let acne define who you are. Do what you can to improve your skin, working with a dermatologist, if necessary, and keep doing the things you enjoy.
Best Remedies
In case of mild you can go for benzyl peroxide ointment with any combination of antibiotic cream.
Adapalene ointment best works, just apply it overnight on the acne. (Consult a doctor for your skin sensitivity for that)
Trinetoin works best in case of severe acne.
Home Remedies:
Neem Powder Wash: Dry neem leaves, powder them. In alternate days, soak the powder in water or yogurt and on apply on the affected area. Make sure that you don’t have any allergy to neem.
Neem Capsules: Taking one neem capsule everyday removes all the toxins from your body, there by purifying the skin and body.
Cinnamon Powder: Apply the mixture of cinnamon powder and honey on the acne during night.
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