Most of us have encountered the problem of pimples popping up more than once. This $3 billion cosmetic industry is overloaded with products that claim to remove acne permanently.
Acne is not merely a superficial problem, but acne sufferers have been known to have faced depression, low self-esteem and even have suicidal thoughts.
If you suffer from acne, it will help you to know more about the different kinds of skin problems such as acne, whiteheads and pimples, what causes acne, and how you can treat it.
What is Acne?
Our skin consists of sebaceous glands that produce sebum or oil to keep the skin supple. These glands are located in our hair follicles. Sometimes, when these follicles become clogged with dirt or excess oil, it leads to an outbreak.
If such a clogged hair follicle is open, it comes in contact with air and oxidation occurs. This leads to blackheads. If the follicle is closed, air cannot enter and no oxidation occurs. This is called a whitehead.
If however, bacteria enter the follicle and it gets inflamed, the resulting eruption is called an acne.
What Causes Acne?
Acne occurs when the skin produces more sebum. This typically occurs during puberty. When we enter puberty, our body produces more testosterone, which leads to more production of sebum. This oil attracts dirt and grime, and this leads to acne.
In most cases, the eruption of acne stops once we hit adulthood. But in some cases, it persists beyond puberty. Such acne can be triggered due to many reasons.
Other Common Causes of Acne include:
- Exposure to pollution
- Stress – the stress hormone, cortisol affects the testosterone pathway
- Sugary food or high card food – Sugar affects insulin and testosterone production
- Certain grooming products
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- Hormonal imbalances occurring during childbirth or perimenopause
- Excessively dry skin – the body overcompensates by producing more sebum
How Can You Treat Acne?
Acne, though a skin deep problem, affects many people not just physically, but psychologically as well. Hence, it is important we know how to treat this condition well.
Here are Some Quick Fixes for Acne:
- Plain white toothpaste – being antibacterial, when dabbed on acne, it can dry it out.
- Lemon juice (preferably with cinnamon) left overnight
- Essential oils like tea tree oil and frankincense
- Aloevera gel
- Ice pack
- Alcohol-free moisturisers
- Healthy food
Follow these steps and incorporate a healthy diet into your routine, and you will find fighting acne much easier.
