Acne is a mystery to most. It’s easily the most common skin problem we encounter at the Dermatology Clinic. Rumors about its causes and cures can make treating the nearly ubiquitous condition much harder that it has to be. With that in mind, we will explain what acne really is and how you can prevent it.
Acne Causes
The reason teenagers get pimples at a much higher rate (between 80 and 90 percent) than other age groups is because of the sex hormones that are released into their bodies during puberty. These androgens appear to be responsible for the excessive growth of bacteria in the skin that causes acne breakouts. Contrary to popular belief, there is no evidence that greasy foods or even poor hygiene cause the condition. However, there is a recently established link between a high glycemic diet and acne. In addition, cigarette smoking is associated with worse acne.
Acne Prevention
Toothpaste, lemon juice, slice tomatoes, tanning, and eye drops are just a few of the home remedies for pimples that have never panned out. Here are a few tips that have.
Do Not Squeeze Them
Although popping pimples may provide temporary relief, the damage that is done often exacerbates inflammation, which can make acne look worse and last longer.
Eat Healthy
Too much chocolate and too many cold drinks can significantly worsen one’s acne. Studies have shown that eating an excessive amount of sugary foods and drinks increase IGF-1 (insuline like growth factor). This can increase the oil production, but sweets in moderation are okay.
Moisturize Your Skin
Acne products work by drying out the affected area, which can cause irritation to otherwise healthy skin. In order to prevent over-drying, it is important to use a light, unscented moisturizer on a daily basis.
Stop Touching Your Face
Even if your hands were completely clean, touching irritated, inflamed skin can only make things worse. So do your best to resist the temptation!
Stay Out of the Sun
While it is true that a few minutes in the sun can help dry acne out a bit, too much direct sunlight can actually damage already irritated areas. It also causes dark spots to stay longer on tan or darker skin types.
Get Some Exercise
Contrary to popular belief, sweat does not cause pimples. In fact, the opposite is true. Because exercise increases blood flow, promoting healing in damaged areas, it can be used for acne prevention.
Drink Lots of Water
H2O not only hydrates skin that may be dried out from acne medications, it also removes toxins from your body, toxins that may be at least partly responsible for breakouts.
Change Your Pillowcase Regularly
The dirt, oil, and bacteria that cause pimples can seep into your pillow as you sleep. Resting your head (or face) on this increasingly dirty surface may enhance your risk of future acne breakouts.
Use these simple acne prevention tips to help keep your skin healthy and clear! The earlier you start, the more effective these are. There are some patients that will still need a prescription plan to control the acne even if they follow all of these tips. And remember, you should always seek professional help if you start scarring.
