It’s one thing to have acne when you’re 15, but to continue battling breakouts after college, or even after you’ve started developing fine lines and wrinkles can seem positively unfair. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, acne is a chronic condition of overactive hair follicles and sebaceous glands. While acne is typically relegated to the face, it can also appear on your neck, chest and back. The key to combating acne is to understand its causes, prevention and treatment.
Blocked Pores
The most common skin condition reported, acne typically begins at puberty when the oil glands in hair follicles are stimulated, producing an oil called sebum. Dried oil, dead skin cells or hair can block the pores, trapping bacteria and causing inflammation. What results can be an unsightly and sometimes painful collection of skin irritations or lesions. Acne can be a genetic condition that may not disappear after puberty, although it usually subsides to a less chronic and noticeable condition.
Blackheads and Whiteheads
Once the bacteria is trapped inside a pore, comedones, known informally as blackheads and whiteheads, form. When a comedone is partially blocked, it’s called a blackhead because of the dark appearance of the plug at the skin’s surface. When a comedone is completely blocked, the skin takes on a slightly raised appearance with a bump that might have a white appearance at the surface. When the irritations become infected, abscesses of pus result. These irritations are also called pimples.
Prevention
There is no foolproof method for preventing acne from erupting, but you can try and minimize its occurrence and appearance. Wash your face only twice a day or after perspiring with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. Read the ingredient label on the cleanser and avoid products that contain alcohol. Wash your face with your fingertips, moving them in a gentle, circular motion and avoid using washcloths or materials that can further irritate skin. Rinse with lukewarm water, and if you are prone to breakouts, wash oily hair on a regular basis.
Treatment
Before beginning any skin care regimen, you should consult your physician or a dermatologist. Dermatologists differ on whether to pop or squeeze pimples, but if possible, you should have your acne treated at a dermatologist’s office to minimize the occurrence of further infection or scarring. Use oil-free products,such as moisturizers and sunscreens, and apply prescribed or over-the-counter medicine or spot treatments to clean skin. Even after your acne clears, you should continue treating your skin to prevent additional outbreaks.
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