Acne can attack any patch of skin with hair follicles and oil glands, but it most commonly appears on the face. The pimples are very visible, which often causes embarrassment and shame. Fortunately many effective facial acne treatments are available for purchase, and doctors can help with severe cases.
Causes
Acne is caused by a combination of too much skin oil, dead skin cells and bacteria, according to the Mayo Clinic. This mixture blocks hair follicles, also known as pores, resulting in pimples. Facial skin is rich in pores, making it especially vulnerable. The glands that produce the skin oil known as sebum normally produce the right amount, but hormones sometimes trigger them to make too much. This excess sebum combines with dead skin to plug the pore, and bacteria often infect the area.
Symptoms
Acne manifests as raised red bumps called pimples. Some, called blackheads, are open at the skin's surface. Others, known as whiteheads, are closed. Many pimples are pus-filled, and the Mayo Clinic warns that deep cysts can form in the most severe cases. Cystic acne can scar the face if it goes untreated or if you scratch and pick at the swellings.
Home Treatment
The most popular ingredients in acne treatments are salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, suggests the American Academy of Dermatology. These come in lotions, creams, facial wipes and pads. These medications may irritate the facial skin, but this effect lessens over time. You must continue to use them even when your face clears up, because pimples will return if you stop.
You can also take simple home-care steps to protect your face from pimples. Tie your hair back off your face, because it can make your face sweat if it lays again the skin, and sweat contributes to acne outbreaks. Switch to oil-free products if you wear make-up; oily cosmetics contribute to pore blockage.
Medical Treatment
Many prescription treatments are available for unresponsive acne. Doctors can prescribe stronger topical treatments as well as antibiotics. They may give oral contraceptives to women with severe acne who also want to prevent pregnancies. A drug called isotretinoin may be used for the worst facial acne cases, but doctors are cautious about prescribing it because it can have serious side effects, such as long-term medical problems and an increased suicide risk.
Considerations
Many erroneous beliefs endure about acne. For example, many people attribute acne to a dirty face or eating greasy foods. The Mayo Clinic explains that poor hygiene has no effect, and starchy foods are the only dietary factor that may cause pimples. You can actually aggravate your acne by washing your face too much. You should wash no more than once or twice a day with the mildest possible soap or cleanser.
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