Why does Acne affect some people in extreme severity, whereas some are blessed with a peaches and cream complexion?
Everyone who has suffered from acne has probably asked this question looking into the mirror. Acne can occur in anyone on the face, chest, and back. These blemishes can occur as whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, papules, pustules, nodules or cyst. There are also acne look alike like rosacea.
Acne patients need to be aware of the various medications available for controlling Acne. They also need to stop believing the various myths that surround Acne. Acne is not fatal but is known to be traumatic to acne patients leading to acute depression and misery.
Which is the right time to see a dermatologist?
It is often difficult to decide when to see a dermatologist.
Acne patients are often embarrassed and shun social interaction. They become acutely depressed and pessimistic about life. They try over the counter drugs unsuccessfully and there is scarring on the skin. In addition to Comedones (black heads and whiteheads), pus filled lesions appear as red spots on the skin. Also for people with dark skin, a darker patch is observed after the lesion has cleared. These are sure indications to tell you that you need to seek expert opinion and visit a dermatologist.
Remember, dermatologists can treat and control acne. Preventing new lesions from appearing will reduce your chances of permanent scarring.
If you are using over the counter drugs, Caution should be taken to avoid drugs, which have side effects.
There are some topical medications for controlling Acne. The type of skin determines the use of these. Alpha Hydroxy Acids are skin exfoliators – and they are used by experts as peeling agents. Start using topical medication once on alternate days. If you find excessive peeling of skin, take a break.
Accutane is a popular drug that is often prescribed for Acne. It is found to be quite effective in controlling Acne; however, research has revealed that there could be some serious side effects with continuous use of Accutane. Diseases related to the kidneys, like irritable bowel syndrome, bleeding in the rectum, injuries to the musculoskeletal system, vision impairment, and liver damage.
Laser treatments are found to be effective in curtailing the production of oil. Laser treatment given to acne-affected parts for the duration of 4-5 minutes has proved effective. It has no known side effects except the skin turning pink for a while.
Acne found in teens and adults also respond to light therapy; but in cases of severe and persistent acne, internal medicines needs to be administered to reduce clogging of pores and reducing oil production.
Blackheads and whiteheads are removed surgically by experts. However, this may not be advisable for milder forms of acne.
You don’t have to suffer Acne. Acne can be cured!