Acne is the most common skin problem, yet the most misunderstood. People suffering from this condition receive all types of unsolicited advice with little or no improvement. It can be frustrating, but one needs not give up. Acne appears on the face, upper arms neck and the back and can affect ones self-esteem and confidence. If untreated, the skin condition can result in scarring; this is hard to get rid of.
Myths abound on the cause of acne. Some purport that the condition is a result of dirt on the skin’s surface, poor eating habits and even lack of exercise. However, this is not true. The primary acne cause is the swelling of hair follicle, which spills its content on the skin, therefore causing inflammation and redness. Bacteria also contribute to the development of the skin condition, mainly by producing substances that irritate the skin and cause inflammation. The androgen and estrogen hormones present in both women and men also contribute to the skin condition development.
There are two basic acne types – Inflammatory and non-inflammatory. The Inflammatory type consists of zits, tender lesions and has red blemishes. Non-inflammatory acne on the other hand, consists of either black heads or white heads depending on whether an inflamed hair follicle is exposed to air or not.
Some of the renowned effective acne treatment includes products that contain Proactiv, Salicylic acid and Tetextra ingredients that form a powerful gentle treatment with noticeable results within days of use. Though Benzoyl peroxide is still used by some manufacturers in their skin treatment products, it has side effects such as skin dryness, a burning sensation, redness and flaking. In extreme cases, itching, redness and swelling may occur.
Products with proactive, salicylic and Retextra are more mild on the skin, do not cause itching, helps the skin to shed off easily therefore unclogging the pores and allows new skin cells to grow. This treatment compliments basic hygiene, which should include washing the face at least twice a day using a mild soap and using the acne treatment products at least twice daily or as directed.
