Acne can cause low self-esteem, lack of confidence, social embarrassment, and misery for many sufferers. This is unfortunate because it can be quite easily treated, either by over-the-counter creams and gels, which can clear up mild cases, or by prescription medication which can clear up medium and severe outbreaks. This article shows young people how to get rid of acne.
Acne is a condition which mostly affects the young. Normally the problem starts at puberty, but it can continue when the sufferer becomes an adult. Adult women may also suffer due to hormonal changes which occur during pregnancy, or during monthly periods. Disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome may also cause the condition in adult women.
Parts of the upper body, specifically the face, chest, neck and back, have a high density of sebaceous follicles. The purpose of these follicles is to secrete a natural skin lubricant called sebum, but hormonal changes may cause the follicles to become blocked, and may cause more sebum to be produced than normal.
When a follicle becomes blocked it may turn into either a pimple or blackhead. A blackhead results if there is an opening to the air so that the sebum oxidizes and darkens. A pimple occurs when there is no opening to the air, and a bacterial infection causes inflammation, soreness and redness.
Mild cases can be cleared up by topical creams and gels which may be bought over-the-counter in any pharmacy. More severe cases can be treated by a doctor, who will prescribe a stronger cream or gel (such as benzoyl peroxide), and an antibiotic, which will treat the bacterial infection causing the pimples.
The most severe cases may require the use of medications such as retinoids. Although these are very effective, they do have some side effects, and patients must be monitored regularly while taking these treatments. Normally these are only prescribed by specialist dermatologists.
If you are tired of living with this annoying condition, take the time to visit Jonathan Mercer’s website and finally figure out how to get rid of acne. Read the various product reviews and find out which one is best for you. Start here by reading the following Exposed acne treatment review.