Acne is the body’s natural response to excess oil (sebum) being released by the grease-producing sebaceous glands, situated next to hair follicles on the skin. The excess oil combined with dead skin cells block the pores, forming a plug. According to the NHS, this excess oil changes the activity of a normally harmless skin bacteria called P. acnes, which further exacerbates the plugged pore.
Suffering from acne at any age can be distressing, and unfortunately many people suffer with it at some stage of life. For many women, the urge to cover up with make-up and try a plethora of miracle cures can be overwhelming – and don’t always end with results worth the time, energy and money spent.
Acne can start at any age, although is more likely during periods of hormonal change – hence why most people associate acne with puberty. However, it can also affect many women during pregnancy, form part of women’s menstrual cycle symptoms, or appear at times of stress.
It’s important to note that suffering from acne is not a result of poor hygiene. The biological mechanics that evolve into acne occur below the skin’s surface, so bear no correlation to how frequently you wash. Acne can have a huge impact on your self-confidence, so it is important to remember this fact and not let the spots get you down.
Everyone suffering from acne wants to know how they can get clearer skin. Here are our top tips.
If you’re suffering from mild acne, a pharmacist should be able to help. But if that line of treatment doesn’t work or your acne is severe, speak to your GP. They will be able to recommend one of many treatment options that will reduce oil production and speed up skin cell turnover. You may be prescribed:
While covering up your spots may be the natural response, daily application of heavy make-up can actually increase the blockages of your pores. Using water-based products, or those classed as non-comedogenic, will be less likely to block pores. Of course, thoroughly removing make-up at the end of the day is essential.
Because many cases of acne are caused by hormonal imbalance, it’s perhaps unsurprising that birth control methods can play a part in the control and treatment of acne. As reported by WebMD in America, the FDA has approved three types of oral contraceptive as effective treatment against acne. Oral contraceptives with a combination of progesterone and oestrogen can help, whereas progesterone-only pills and some contraceptive implants can make acne worse. It’s worth discussing options with your doctor.
Being aware of your daily habits can make a difference in the control and treatment of acne.
The treatment of acne is a slow process and it can take weeks before you see a difference. It’s therefore important to stick with your line of treatment to give it chance to improve.
Our specialist acne clinic treatments are having positive outcomes for many women. We are committed to helping you rid your skin of acne, in the most painless, dignified manner. Contact Skintique Clinic today to see how we can help you lead an acne-free life.