Acne: The troublemaker that ruins your youthful appearance!

Youth is the time to be beautiful, right? But these pimples come and mess everything up, don't they? Don't be afraid! Let's find out exactly what these pimples are, why they appear, and how to get rid of them.

What is acne?

Our skin has oil-producing glands (sebaceous glands). These glands release oil through tiny pores in the skin. Sometimes these pores get clogged with dead skin cells and dirt. Then the oil can't get out. Then bacteria come and take up residence in this oil. Eventually, these glands become swollen, red, and filled with pus , forming pimples. These pimples can come in different forms:

• Blackheads: These look like open, dark black dots.
• Whiteheads: These look like small, white, pus-filled bumps.
• Papules: Red, swollen, hard bumps.
• Pustules: Pus-filled blisters with a yellow head.
• Cysts: These are slightly larger, deeper, harder blisters.

Why do acne appear?

The main reason is hormonal changes. During adolescence, both boys and girls experience an increase in the levels of male hormones (androgens). These hormones cause the oil glands to produce more oil. Some people's skin becomes more sensitive to these hormones, making them more prone to acne. Another reason is bacteria. Bacteria on the skin combine with the oil to form acne.

Who gets acne?

Acne often affects young people. Boys usually get acne between the ages of 13-18. It can get very severe by the age of 18-19. Girls also start getting acne around this age. It usually gets very severe around the age of 14. Acne can also increase during menstruation.

How long will this last?

Acne usually subsides by the age of 20, but some people may have this problem for much longer.

Important points

• Acne is not caused by food. (However, some people may experience increased acne due to certain foods. You have to find out for yourself.)
• Acne doesn't spread.
• Common chemicals (for example, chlorine in swimming pools) do not cause acne to increase.
• Blackheads are not dirt.
• During times of great stress (for example, when studying for an exam, or when having problems in a romantic relationship), acne can increase.

A word to parents

If your son/daughter has acne, it may be a big headache for him/her. But it's not his/her fault. Acne isn't caused by not washing his/her face properly, or by what he/she eats. It's just something else. It won't do any good to scold him/her or to over-analyze him/her. Instead, treat him/her with love. Take him/her to a doctor and help him/her get medicine.

Acne treatment

There are many treatments for acne . These treatments depend on the severity of the acne and your skin type. If you have severe acne, you should definitely see a dermatologist.

Diet

Some people may find that certain foods (such as sweets, chocolate, and milk) can cause acne. However, it has not been scientifically proven that this happens to everyone. If you think this is the case, try cutting back on those foods. However, it is important to eat a balanced, nutritious diet.

Soap and washing

It's important to keep your skin clean. However, don't use harsh soaps. Instead, use a mild soap or a gentle cleanser and wash your face 2-3 times a day. Don't rub too hard.

Makeup

Avoid using oily makeup or creams. Remove all makeup. Use water-based, lotion-type cosmetics as much as possible.

Hair

Keep your hair short and clean. Don't apply oil. Don't let your hair fall on your face or neck. Because the oil in your hair can increase acne.

Removing blackheads

Do not squeeze or pull blackheads. Doing so can cause more acne and scarring.

Exercise

Although exercise doesn't directly affect acne, it is good for the body.

Sunlight

A little bit of sun exposure is good for acne, but don't go out in the sun too much. If you do go out in the sun, use an oil-free, SPF 30+ sunscreen.

Ointments, creams and gels

Many types of ointments are effective for acne. These contain things like sulfur, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoic acid (tretinoin). When using these ointments, the skin may become a little dry and red. If this happens, stop using them. You can buy such ointments at any pharmacy. But ask a doctor before doing so.

Antibiotics

When you see a doctor, they may give you oral antibiotics (for example, tetracycline). Some antibiotics are also available as topical creams.

Birth control pills

If girls/women have acne and want to use birth control, some types of birth control pills are good for acne.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Remember

• Do not squeeze blackheads.
• Eat a balanced diet.
• Wash your face with a gentle cleanser. Avoid over-washing.
• Don't go out in the sun too much.