Tips for Acne Management

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Tips for Acne ManagementAcne is a skin condition characterized by the presence of excessive pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, greasy skin, and possibly scarring. It occurs when the hair follicles of the skin become clogged with debris, dead cells, and oil. Generally, acne manifests on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders. Some people may find it annoying when some acne bumps heal, but new ones appear. While there is a vast array of acne treatment in the market, the following tips help in managing acne.

Acne is common in teenagers, since they are in an age in which the body’s hormones are active, causing increase in oil production and appearance of skin problems like pimples. Teenagers and young adults, especially women, also use makeup and powder to maintain their body image. As per Kids Health, makeup should be removed prior to sleep to avoid dirt and oil accumulation in pores, thus, preventing pimples. Also, old makeup that look and smell odd should be discarded, as it might irritate the skin.

One should prevent the contact of objects on the skin, especially on the face. According to Mayo Clinic, sweat and oil contribute to having acne when they remain in contact with the skin. Thus, the hands and objects, such as telephone receivers, should not be placed in contact on the face. In addition, tight clothing and hats should not touch the face, as they are inclined to accumulating dust or debris, which can irritate the skin and lead to pimples or acne. Also, blemishes should not be picked or squeezed, since doing them could result to scarring or infection.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne can be controlled by washing the face two times a day and after sweating. The publication said that sweating, particularly when wearing a helmet or a hat, could worsen the condition. Thus, it is vital to wash the skin after sweating. It is advisable to use lukewarm water in washing the skin of the face and the body during bath time and scrubbing should be avoided, as it could also make the condition worse. In addition, the fingertips should be used to apply a gentle and non-abrasive cleaner instead of using a washcloth or sponge, as these could irritate the skin.

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Sleep is also a factor that contributes to having acne. In a study about sleep disorders (via Web MD), one hour of sleep deprivation increases the risk of psychological stress by 14%. Danville, California dermatologist Sonia Badreshia-Bansal told the publication that stress due to sleep deprivation boosts the production of glucocorticoid, which could result to abnormal changes in the skin’s structure and function. To easily promote sleep, one may consider drinking warm milk or lowering the room temperature to between 65 and 72 degrees Farenheit, as per Wed MD.

As part of skin protection, staying away from direct sunlight also helps prevent acne. According to Everyday Health, being exposed to harsh sunlight could be a root cause of acne, though many people believed that staying under the sun would alleviate the acne symptoms. In addition, the publication mentioned that the rays of the sun could also lead to other unsolicited skin problems, such as premature aging and skin cancer. In case one needs to stay under the sun, it would be helpful to use a sunscreen lotion, use an umbrella, or wear a cap, hat, or long-sleeved clothing.

While there are a number of non-pharmacological management for acne, considering medical advice from a health care professional is advisable if the severity of acne is widespread, according to NHS. The publication also mentioned that the treatment would be dependent of the intensity of the condition and it could also take a number of months before the acne symptoms go away. Generally, dermatologists prescribe medications, such as oral or topical antibiotics, for severe acne. However, the topical antiseptic benzoyl peroxide should be used cautiously because excessive use could irritate the skin.

By performing natural skin care practices, one will be able to prevent acne. Overall, the risk of having physical damage to the skin and emotional damage to one’s self-esteem would be lowered.

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