Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs most often in teenagers and young adults, but can be present into adulthood.
Causes:
Acne blemishes occur when oil ducts below the skin get clogged due to:
- Hormonal change during adolescence
- Changes in hormone level's before the menstrual cycle
- Use of certain heavy lotions or oily makeup
- Stress
- Nutrition supplements that contain iodine
- Some anticonvulsive medications and lithium
Self-Care for Acne:
Keep your skin clean. Wash your skin twice a day with a mild soap. Use a clean cloth every time, and gently work the soap into your skin. Rinse well. Do not scrub. Wash after you exercise or sweat. An over-the-counter cream, liquid, or gel that contains benzoyl peroxide may help, although overuse may cause irritation. Don't spend too much time in the sun. Use only oil-free and water based makeup, creams, or lotions. Don't squeeze, scratch, or pop pimples, as this can lead to infection and scarring.
Interesting Note: Eating oily foods does NOT cause acne!
Non Urgent
Is your acne very bad and do you have signs of an infection, such as fever and swelling at the site?
Do you have problems with scarring pimples that are big, widespread, and painful, or does your acne cause you a great deal of embarrassment?
Do self-treatments consistently not work or make your skin worse?
