Rethinking Acne Care

By Author: Franklin Mowshowitz
Total Articles: 7
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Acne's damaging impact against people who suffer it is beyond skin deep. In addition to causing discomfort and dampening self-confidence, it has been linked to more serious conditions, including depression and suicide. Taking proven acne treatments and utilizing them in novel ways is an excellent way to combat this frustrating disease.

At its root, acne is basically the result of blocked hair follicles. While skin cells around the follicles are designed to slough off and get pushed out by the growing hair, that sometimes fails to occur due to the presence of too much keratin, a naturally occuring protein. Oils and dead skin cells will then collect in the follicle, causing a discolored plug that either becomes a blackhead or a whitehead. In the former situation, the plug remains open to the elements, but in the latter, the follicle swells shut, which allows for naturally occurring bacteria (primarily Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes) to cause inflammation noticeable through tell-tale redness and pustules.

Though over 85% of teens get acne at one point or another, researchers are unsure as to exactly why ...
... some people get it more severely than others. Nevertheless, there are some known circumstances that increase the likelihood of having the contracting the condition, such as genetic predisposition, hormonal changes such as the onset of puberty, stress, and the use of certain medications and drugs. Contrary to popular belief, most dietary culprits are simply old wives' tales, and acne is not the result of uncleanliness, although regular face-washing can help alleviate it.

Despite its nasty and stubborn reputation, acne is thankfully treatable. Of primary importance is maintaining a regimen. Since your ultimate goal is to kill the P. acnes bacteria, you have to be stalwart in your approach. Wash your skin regularly and invest in some quality acne care products. Also take note of the ingredients in said products. Quality ingredients such as saliyclic acid have a proven track record of success against acne breakouts.