Medical Recommendations

Latest medical recommendations to get rid of acne

Acne is characterized by minor, though occasionally severe, skin-eruptions due to inflammation around the sebaceous glands. Most prominent on the face, upper chest, to back, the sebaceous glands secrete sebum, a thick, oily substance that lubricates the skin. Acne develops when sebum flow is blocked by skin cells, dried sebum or bacteria. Bacteria normally found on the surface of the skin may then infect the whitehead or blackheads, produce pus, and cause an eruption (pimple).

Acne is due to hormonal changes puberty, resulting in increased sebum production, hereditary factors, certain drugs or compounds, including corticosteroids, iodides, bromides and lithium. Other factors including climate changes, stress and exposure to disease.

It is most common during adolescence and can cause considerable psychological distress. Eruptions tend to wane by one’s 20s, but they may persist. Acne is generally harmless and responsive to treatment.

There is no evidence that dietary modifications (such as avoiding chocolate or greasy foods) will reduce the incidence of acne in those so predisposed. Picking or squeezing acne lesions may increase the danger of infection and scarring.

HOW TO TREAT IT?

v .Regular washing of the face and unscented soap to remove excessive oil is recommended. However, over washing can irritate skin, making acne worse.

v Topical solutions that dry the skin, promote peeling and kill bacteria usually improve acne. Over-the-counter preparations most commonly contain salicylic-acid or benzoyl peroxide.

v Several different preparation forms of synthetic vitamin A (Retin A, Differin, and Tazorac) can be administered topically.

v In more severe cases, topical or oral antibiotics like tetracycline and erythromycin may be prescribed.

v For severe cases resistant to antibiotics, an oral vitamin A derivative drug. Acutane, may be used, but this drug is contraindicated for pregnant women since they may damage to the fetus. Other potential side effects; people taking it must be closely monitored by physician, usually with monthly visits and blood tests.

v After acne has been fully controlled scars can be treated with standard or laser surgery or a resurfacing procedure called dermabrasion.