ACNE;CAUSES AND PANACEA

Common Acne (also known as Acne Vulgaris) is an inflammatory condition of sebaceous(fatty) glands of the skin. It occurs most commonly during teenage years and a lesser extent in young adults.It affects between 60 and 80 percent of teenagers about 15 percent are severely affected. A relatively severe form called cystic acne produces large and painful lesions. Most teens get the type of acne called acne vulgaris.

     Acne can be both a psychologically and emotionally painful condition,especially for adolescents.With acne affecting almost everybody at some point in their lives(including adults), it is the most common skin disease addressed by dermatologists.The challenge ofcourse is how to treat acne effectively.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Acne is a skin condition characterised by pimples,which may be closed(sometimes called pustules or whiteheads) or open(backheads), on the face,neck,back, and shoulders. Most acne is mild,although some people experience inflammation with larger cysts, which may result in scarring.

CAUSES

• Puberty: Girls who reach puberty earlier tend to have increased risks for hormonal imbalances,PMS,acne e.t.c.
• Increased sensitivity of the sebaceous gland in the skin to the hormone "androgen" which is secreted by the ovaries and adrenal glands
• Pre-menstrual syndrome: A number of women suffer pre-menstrual acne flare-ups prompted by the release of progesterone after ovulation.
• Oral contraceptives: Oral contraceptives that are high in progesterone can cause acne breakouts.
• Uncleanliness: The skin is the largest organ in the body and it breathes through its pores, clogging of the pores through uncleanliness makes acne-causing microorganisms to flourish. 
• Cow milk consumption: Acne is listed as one of the diseases that have been linked to cow milk consumption in various medical journals.
• Refined sugars
• Artificial sweeteners 

THE PANACEA
 
The simple solution to acne is a multi-prong approach.

• Identify the cause(s).
• Consume appropriate diet rich in vegetables and devoid of processed, refined, fried,chemicalised and denatured foods.
• Regular exercises will help get rid of toxins that can cause acne
• Maintain proper personal hygiene is very essential.
• Find out if the medication you are currently taking contributes to acne and talk to your doctor for a possible alternative.
• Drink plenty of water
• Apply ice on the swelling for about one minute
• Do not pop/squeeze any pimples on your face
• Never touch your face with your hands except they are washed.
• Females should always wash off make-up from their faces before going to bed.