Acne – Types, Causes And Treatments

Acne Vulgaris is an inflammatory disease of the skin, commonly called pimples. In puberty, this condition is common, but tends to disappear as a person reaches his or her early twenties. You can typically see the onset of acne when enlarged hair follicles, known as comedo, plug up with bacteria or oil. The comedo is present beneath the surface of the skin but cannot be seen just by looking at your skin. The oil produced in the skin will allow bacteria to live in the swollen follicle and when the conditions are right, the infected are will grow into an inflamed lesion.

There are two forms of non-inflammatory acne: White heads occur when the comedo is closed and black heads occur when the comedo is open. There are four forms of inflammatory acne:

The mildest forms are called Papules, and they appear on the surface of your skin as a firm pink bump.

There are also small lesions containing visible pus, called pustules. They tend to be red at the base, near the skin, and white or yellow near the raised center.

Some types or acne are extremely painful. These are called cysts or nodules and they are pus-filled lesions buried deep under the skin. The contents of the cyst begin to harden and may last for weeks or months. These are most commonly responsible for leaving scars.

Severe bacterial infections develop not on the face but on the back or chest. This is called Acne Conglobata.

Acne Vulgaris is caused by caused by increases in hormones like androgen, which produces additional sebum, inflammation of the skin, and bacteria. Refer to the following steps for controlling your acne and remaining clear:

If you wash your skin too excessively, you can turn your normally healthy skin dry. If your skin is dry it can become irritated more easily and may even cause extra oil production to compensate for the dryness.

Alcohol is an astringent that destroys the top layer of your skin, so you should avoid using toners that include it.
Do not pick at your acne, whether with your fingernails or other pins. You can potentially force the bacteria even deeper into your skin, which will leave a scar.

Since heat moisture gets trapped against the skin, always wash after exercising. If not, you are creating a perfect home for bacteria.

Eat nutrient rich foods, especially those with Vitamins A, B-2, and B-3. Foods with Zinc such as nuts or liver will also help.

Try not to use makeup while exercising. Many people have been trying to herbal acne treatments instead of normal medications. These can be found in oils, teas and herbal supplements.