ACNE
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become
plugged with oil and dead skin cells.
Acne is characterised by blackheads or whiteheads, pimples, oily skin
and scarring.
Primarily, acne affects areas with high production of sebum; the face,
the upper part of the chest and the back.
What causes acne?
In general, susceptibility to acne is primarily genetic. However, there are other causes of acne that range from diet to hormones.
These causes include:
- Overactive oil glands that lead to the clogging of the skin pores
- Abnormal shedding of dead skin cells.
- Fast production of acne-causing bacteria.
- High consumption of simple carbohydrates; sugary foods.
How can acne be treated?
There are different types of acne, the most common ones being blackheads and whiteheads.
Their treatment centres toward the same thing. The go-to method of managing acne is drinking lots of water as the more hydrated your skin is, the less your pores will clog.
Blackheads and whiteheads can be dealt with at home with a proper skincare routine but the other five types of acne; cysts, nodules, milia, papules and pustules require the attention of a skilled dermatologist.
Blackheads and Whiteheads
Blackheads are open pores.
They can be dealt with by:
- Cleansing your face with salicylic acid products.
- Exfoliating regularly by using clay and charcoal masks.
- Use non-comedogenic products for your face.
- you can purchase acne care products here
Whiteheads are closed pores.
They can be dealt with by Washing your face daily with warm water
and a mild facial cleanser.
- Use a moisturizer regularly.
- Use non-comedogenic makeup and
remove it at the end of the day. - Keep hair products away from the face.
Other at-home acne tips.
- Keep your face clean; wash your face at least two times a day with
warm water and non-abrasive cleansers. - Choose the right skincare routine and stick to it.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Stay out of the sun and use sunscreen regularly.
- As tempting as it is, do not pop or squeeze your pimples. Squeezing
pushes the bacteria and pus into the skin causing more irritation and
swelling. Also squeezing pimples may cause them to leave permanent
pits and scars.
Contributed by: Khadija Solle