Acne Causes, Myths and Treatments

At some point in your life you probably suffered from acne. Perhaps you still do. Acne affects over 80% of the population. Although the exact cause of acne is not known, there are several treatments that can control or reduce the number of acne outbreaks. Finding a product that works can be a daunting task.

The production of excessive oil secretions combined with the natural occurrence of dead skin cells leads can lead to the blockage of the hair follicles. When the follicle becomes blocked the oil builds up, and it isn’t long before we have a pimple.

Myths about the Causes of Acne

There are many myths about what causes acne. Chocolate and greasy foods are often blamed, but research has shown that foods seem to have little effect on the development and course of acne in most people. Another common myth is that dirty skin causes acne; however, blackheads and other acne lesions are not caused by dirt.

Cosmetics

Most cosmetic and skin care products are not pore-clogging ("comedogenic.") Of the many available brands, those which are listed as "water-based" or "oil-free" are generally a better choice.

Hormones

When you begin puberty, certain hormones, called androgens, increase in both males and females. These hormones trigger oil ducts on the face, back and upper chest to begin producing oil. This can cause acne in some people.

What Factors May Aggravate Acne?

Occlusive Factors

When the skin surface and its pores are blocked, the pores are described as being occluded. Factors that may cause occlusion include certain cosmetics, oils, greases, and hairsprays. Hats, helmets and pads used in sports may also contribute to this problem as can humidity, sweating and the prolonged effect of contact with damp clothing.

Too much refined foods

Eating too much refined foods also develop acne, several studies reveal. Why it happens so, is easily answered that our body can not identify too much refined substances and our immune system stimulates. It produces anti bodies against these substances resulting in a severity and development of acne. Thus, it may be referred to as allergic effect. Avoid too much refined food such as diary products, juices and cooking oil.

Sunlight

Many people consider exposure to sunlight helps cure acne, but its ultra violet rays have reverse effects. Exposure to direct sunlight is a major cause of skin cancer and acne complications. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight.

Inflammation

The most common things that can aggravate your acne are: cleansing your skin too much, squeezing, picking, or popping zits. Excessive cleansing, particularly with the overzealous use of abrasive facial scrubs can irritate your skin, and worsen inflammation.

Acne Complications

Possible complications include:

• cysts
• permanent facial scars
• changes in skin color
• damage to self-esteem, confidence, personality, and social life
• side effects of conventional medications (but homeopathic medicines don't have any side effects)

Acne Treatments

Antibiotics. For moderate to severe acne, prescription oral antibiotics may be needed to reduce bacteria and fight inflammation. You may need to take these antibiotics for months, and you may need to use them in combination with topical products.

Oral contraceptives. Oral contraceptives, including a combination of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol (Ortho-Cyclen, Ortho Tri-Cyclen), have been shown to improve acne in women. However, oral contraceptives may cause other side effects that you'll want to discuss with your doctor.

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By Dr John Anne
Published: 3/4/2008

Article from: www.buzzle.com