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How to Get Rid of Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While it is most commonly associated with adolescence, acne can affect people of all ages and can have a significant impact on self-esteem and confidence. In this article, we will explore what acne is, why it occurs, and whether it can be cured. We will also answer some of the most common questions about different methods people use to treat acne including medications and homemade remedies.
What is acne?
Acne is a very common skin condition that can affect millions of people worldwide for a variety of different reasons. Acne can range from mild to severe and can have a significant impact on self-esteem and quality of life. While acne is not a serious health condition, it can be frustrating and difficult to manage. With proper treatment and self-care, however, most people can effectively manage their acne and achieve clear, healthy skin.
Why does acne occur?
There are a number of different reasons why acne will occur. Acne typically occurs when hair follicles become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. The skin produces an oil called sebum. This is released from hair follicles to protect and lubricate the skin. When the skin produces excessive sebum it can mix with dead skin cells to form a plug in a hair follicle. When this plug becomes infected by bacteria it can form into blackheads, whiteheads and spots.
Is acne hereditary?
There can be a hereditary component that can lead to acne development. Research has shown that if one or both parents have at some point had acne then their children are more likely to develop it as well. It is not fully understood which specific gene is responsible for this, however, it is thought that it is something related to sebum production, skin inflammation and immune response.
Can acne be cured?
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for acne. Acne can greatly vary from person to person. It can be relatively minor to severe and can be caused by a number of different factors. The goal of acne treatment is to reduce the number of spots, whiteheads or blackheads a person has to help improve the appearance and feel of the skin.
Why can acne be difficult to get rid of?
Acne can be difficult to get rid of because it can vary in severity and the trigger that causes it. Often, it can take a number of different treatments before someone finds the method that works for them. For other people, such as teenagers, acne will clear itself up on its own as their hormones rebalance.
Is getting rid of acne different for adults and children?
The approach for getting rid of acne will be different for adults and children. The trigger for acne can be different for adults and children. Acne in children is commonly associated with adolescence and puberty. During this time the hormones change which can lead to the overproduction of sebum which can cause spots.
Dealing With Severe Acne
Dealing with severe acne can be a challenging and frustrating experience. Here are some tips for dealing with your severe acne:
Consult with a healthcare professional
Follow a consistent skincare routine that works for you
Use topical medications such as Tretinoin
Practise good hygiene
Manage your stress levels
Different Methods for Treating Acne
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding different methods of treating acne.
Diet and Exercise
Can green tea help to get rid of acne?
Green tea can help to reduce the appearance of acne due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidants in green tea can help protect the skin from damage, and its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation and redness caused by acne.
Can honey help to get rid of acne?
Honey is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The antibacterial properties of honey can help to kill the bacteria that are causing acne.
Can cutting back on dairy help to get rid of acne?
There is some evidence to suggest that cutting back on dairy products, specifically milk, can help with acne. Milk contains hormones that can stimulate the production of oil in the skin which leads to acne breakouts. Research is, however, limited.
Can a low glycemic diet help to get rid of acne?
A low glycemic index (GI) diet can help to reduce the severity and frequency of acne breakouts. Low GI diets consist of foods that are low in carbohydrates and cause a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar levels. This can also help to regulate insulin levels which can reduce the production of sebum in the skin.
Can regular exercise help to get rid of acne?
Regular exercise can be beneficial for improving general health and well-being however, it is not known to be helpful in getting rid of acne. Exercise can help to reduce stress levels which can contribute to acne, however, excess sweating during exercise can lead to acne developing.
Home Remedies
Will home remedies work to help get rid of acne?
There are many different home remedies that can help to reduce the appearance and severity of acne. Different remedies can help different people based on the severity of their condition and the cause of their condition.
Can I apply cider vinegar to help get rid of acne?
Some people say to apply apple cider vinegar to your acne to treat it. It is thought to have antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic and can be irritating to the skin if it is not diluted correctly.
Can tea tree oil help to get rid of acne?
Yes, tea tree oil has been shown to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which can help to treat acne and prevent future breakouts. It is important to properly dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil as it can be irritating to the skin if not properly diluted.
Can witch hazel help to get rid of acne?
When witch hazel is applied to the skin it can help to unclog the pores, remove excess oil and reduce the appearance of acne. It is also believed to help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
Can aloe vera help to get rid of acne?
Aloe vera is a popular natural remedy that can be used to treat a number of different skin conditions. When applied topically, aloe vera can help to reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne, as well as promote healing and prevent scarring.
Can baker's yeast help get rid of acne?
There is a limited amount of evidence to suggest that baker’s yeast has benefits towards acne. Baker’s yeast is a type of fungus which is rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids that can promote healthy skin. Using a large amount of baker’s yeast can cause some skin irritation.
Supplements
Can fish oil supplements get rid of acne?
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation caused by acne. These fatty acids can also improve overall skin health, not only for acne.
Can zinc supplements help to get rid of acne?
There is some evidence to suggest that zinc supplements may be helpful in reducing acne symptoms. Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a role in a variety of bodily functions, including immune system function, wound healing, and skin health.
Lifestyle Changes
Can reducing stress factors help to get rid of acne?
Reducing stress factors can help to reduce the severity of acne for some people. Stress can stimulate the production of certain hormones that cause more oil to be produced by the skin, leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts.
Can exfoliating regularly help to get rid of acne?
Regularly exfoliating can help to get rid of acne by removing dead skin cells and unclogging the pores. It is important that you exfoliate your skin gently as harsh exfoliation can damage the skin and worsen acne.
Can choosing the right makeup products help to get rid of acne?
Choosing the right makeup products can help to prevent further breakouts and irritation of the skin, but it may not necessarily help to get rid of existing acne. It is important to choose makeup products that are labelled as non-comedogenic and oil-free.
Can avoiding picking acne help to get rid of it?
Yes, avoiding picking acne can help to get rid of it. Picking or popping acne spots can lead to more inflammation and even scarring. It can also spread bacteria and cause new breakouts to form.
Can using a non-comedogenic moisturiser help to get rid of acne?
Using a non-comedogenic moisturiser can help prevent acne breakouts by not clogging pores. Non-comedogenic means that a product has been formulated in such a way that it does not clog pores. Not all non-comedogenic products will work for everyone so finding one that works for you may be tricky.
Prescription Medications
What acne treatments are available at UK Meds to help you get rid of acne?
There are a number of different prescription acne treatments that you can purchase from UK Meds including topical medications such as Tretinoin, and antibiotics such as Lymecycline and Oxytetracycline.
How does Tretinoin help to get rid of acne?
Tretinoin is a topical retinoid medication. It works by irritating the skin to the point where it speeds up the life cycle of the cells. It makes old, damaged cells divide quicker and die sooner, speeding up the process of getting new, fresh, healthier cells. Tretinoin can also stimulate collagen and elastin in the skin which help to leave the skin looking smoother and fresher.
How does Lymecycline help to get rid of acne?
Lymecycline is a medication that works by stopping bacteria from growing and increasing in numbers. This medication is commonly used to treat acne as it combats the bacteria that cause acne. Lymecycline helps to control the number of bacteria in the skin to keep inflammation under control.
How does Oxytetracycline help to get rid of acne?
Oxytetracycline is an antibiotic that is commonly used to treat acne. It works by reducing the number of bacteria that contribute to acne, much in the same way as lymecycline. Bacteria is thought to play a significant role in the development of acne by producing inflammatory chemicals that cause redness and irritation of the skin.
How does Treclin gel help to get rid of acne?
Treclin gel helps to get rid of acne in two different ways. It contains tretinoin, which as mentioned increases skin cell turnover to combat acne, as well as an antibiotic that stops bacteria on your skin from growing and multiplying.
How does Acnecide gel help to get rid of acne?
Acnecide gel contains an active ingredient called benzoyl peroxide. This ingredient works to break down keratin. This will in turn break down and cause the top layer of skin to shed, breaking down blackheads, whiteheads and comedones. Acnecide gel combats bacteria that feed on sebum.
How can you get rid of acne scars?
Getting rid of acne scars can be a difficult process and may require a combination of treatments. Acne scars can remain even after the acne has passed and can greatly affect someone’s confidence. There are a number of ways people try to reduce the appearance of scarring including certain skin medications, chemical peels, and other techniques such as microneedling and dermal fillers.
What is acne dysmorphic disorder?
Acne dysmorphic disorder (ADD) is a psychological condition that involves excessive preoccupation with the appearance of the skin, specifically with acne. People with ADD often pick at their acne lesions or engage in other repetitive and compulsive skin-picking behaviours, which can lead to scarring, infection, and worsening of the condition.
What emotional support is available for acne sufferers?
Acne can have a significant impact on a sufferer's self-esteem and emotional well-being. There are a number of different emotional support methods people suffering from acne can utilise, including:
Online counselling and communities
Confiding in friends and family
Utilising mindfulness and meditation techniques
Professional counselling and therapy
When is a good time to see a doctor about getting rid of acne?
Many people may be concerned about visiting the doctor to talk about their acne as they do not see it as necessary. If you have tried various over-the-counter treatments and they have not worked for you then you may wish to consider speaking to a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
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