By Grant Mya
Acne is a common skin condition that affects many people; it is caused by changing hormone levels during puberty, but symptoms can start at any age, and around 95% of people aged 11 to 30 are affected to some extent. Six different forms of spots are referred to as acne, but some patients will only suffer from one or two of the different types. Although acne is incurable, it is possible to control symptoms with shop-bought creams, gels, and lotions, and for more severe cases, prescription antibiotics might be needed. Acne is known to be hereditary and can develop on the face, back and chest of sufferers, but many find relief, and it often disappears when the person enters their 20s, moisturizer for acne scars is available if needed as a final step.
Helpful Tips for Sufferers
Acne sufferers can also benefit from establishing a regime of certain techniques that have shown to be helpful; let’s look at some of these now –
- Don’t wash the affected areas more than twice a day – it irritates the skin and worsens the problem.
- When you wash only, use lukewarm water, water at temperature extremes can affect the condition.
- Squeezing spots or cleaning out affected areas is to be avoided as it can cause permanent scarring.
- Try to limit the amount of make-up and cosmetics you are using.
- Use water-based skincare products; oil-based products can block pores and make symptoms worse.
- Washing your hair regularly will help and try to keep it from falling across your face.
Although these steps won’t cure your acne, they will help to control breakouts and limit the severity of your symptoms.
What Else Can I Do?
While not directly affecting acne symptoms, regular exercise can improve your fitness, self-esteem, and mood; whether it’s jogging, cycling or another type of exercise, it is a great way to affect your overall well-being. It is though important to shower as soon as possible after exercise as sweat can irritate acne. It’s also a good idea to stay out of the sun; its ultraviolet rays can cause inflammation and redness; some acne medications may also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Limit your time in the sun to periods at the beginning or end of the day when the sun’s rays aren’t as strong as others; wearing a broad-brimmed hat is also a great idea.
Last but not least, try to relax, chill out and be comfortable with your acne; some studies are relating stress to acne breakouts, you can still live a comfortable and happy life, and I hope my short piece will help you along the way.
