Acne and Acne Skin Care
Many of us, as teenagers, have experienced the dread of acne. Blackheads, whiteheads and the red, swollen, pus-containing lesions we call pimples is a common disease in adolescents called acne vulgaris. Eight out of every ten adolescents suffer it. Mild acne is believed to be a ‘normal’ condition of puberty, continuing throughout the teen years.
Severe acne vulgaris cases can be extremely traumatic to a teenager, leaving life-long emotional and physical scars. Severe acne has significant impact on the way teenagers view themselves. Effects can include embarrassment, low self-esteem and self-confidence, depression, anger, social withdrawal, poor body image and discouragement. Unless it is treated in a holistic way, entering adulthood will most likely not imply the end of severe acne. It is a sign that there is something happening within the teen that needs to be treated on an emotional as well as a physical level.
During puberty (about age 11 to 14) and throughout the teen years, increased levels of androgen hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to grow and produce more sebum. When there is excessive sebum production, the follicle can become blocked. Also during puberty, the follicle lining’s skin cells shed more quickly and can form sticky aggregations. Dead skin cells and bacteria can combine with the sebum in the blocked pore.
One type of bacteria with a specific influence over acne is Proprionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). P. acnes lives in the skin of every person; even people who don’t have acne. The sebum that is discharged to the skin is used by P. acnes as food. However, when sebum clogs the sebaceous glands, the P. acnes proliferate quickly and break the sebum down into irritating fatty acids that cause an immune reaction. the result is inflammation, with swelling, redness, and pain.
To alleviate an acne-prone face, gently wash it twice a day. Rinse carefully using warm water and pat dry with a clean soft towel. Do not use a washcloth to scrub or use harsh, high pH abrasive cleansers or soaps. Too much friction can worsen acne. Mild calendula soap is fine. Avoid over washing your face because this can make it irritated and dry. Skin must keep the proper pH levels to ensure a smooth complexion.
Beware of skin care solutions that include artificial preservatives, fragrance or coloring agents. These chemicals can make the problem worse. If using cosmetics, use oil-free, water-based foundations sparingly and carefully wash them off before going to bed. Look for biological products made with components that are not likely to aggravate or cause acne. Finally, use a nonscented moisturizer. If your skin is dry, it produces more oil and the oil is more likely to become trapped in pores.
A new acne skin care product is the latest answer for all your dermal problems, including scars and imperfections. Its natural ingredients ensure a safe and promising skin regeneration effect.
- Angelique Jodein
