THE TRUTH AND MYTHS ABOUT ACNE
A lot of young people especially those who suffer from acne are willing to try just about any product which promises hope and re-establishes their self esteem. In spite of the information overload in the 21ST century on this topic, continuous advertisements from the media and myths from the general public which bombard persons, there is still a need to simplify and sort out the truth and the myths about acne so that appropriate approach to treatment can be taken.

Acne is that skin condition commonly referred to as blackhead or whitehead mostly affecting the facial area in both males and females but can also manifest on the neck, shoulders, chest or back. Depending on the severity of the acne it can be classified as mild, moderate or severe; the latter is where the pimples are present on a large area of the skin or create cystic lesions which are large and deep. When it is severe it is very painful and causes scarring of the skin.

The explanation behind the cause of acne is linked to a hormonal change in the bodies of both females and males. Hence acne is known to affect teenagers while they are going through puberty, women during their menstrual cycle or in the later years of the female life when they are experiencing menopause. It is believed by leading experts in the field of dermatology that the body produces excessive oils during the hormonal shift which together with the simultaneous increase in cell production at the root of the hairs clog the pores. Externally bacteria can grow on the skin especially if the skin is not cleansed or there is a lot of sweating resulting in inflammation (a natural medical reaction to get rid of any foreign or invading body and is presented by swelling, redness, pain, heat or loss of function).

Some other factors which were found to be linked to acne are genetics, stress, using hair and skin products which contain irritating chemicals, excessive washing and scrubbing of the face and hair styles which hang in the face. With regards to the genetic factor it was also found that those persons with severe acne would have had parents who suffered with acne also. Wearing tight fitting gears or straps can also contribute to acne on various parts for example helmets, bra straps, and shoulder pads worn by football players and violin players, headbands or turtle neck sweaters. It is also known that certain medication can cause acne as a side effect such as some oral contraceptives.

So the treatment for acne is personalised and vary depending on your skin type, products which you use and other factors to which you are exposed. This is why many persons respond negatively to popular products advertised for treating acne. Acne treatment is comprehensive and specific using a combination of both oral and topical (creams or solutions) preparations. The treatment depends on the severity and is phased by unclogging the pores, reducing the amount of oil on the skin, killing the bacteria, eliminating any risk factors and long term maintenance care. Note that some medications are not safe to use during pregnancy and also can cause drug resistance. So you are advised to seek professional help when treating your acne.

There are some home remedies which you can observe to reduce flare ups such as gently washing your face one to two times daily, not squeezing the pimples since it can lead to scarring or worsening the infection if not treated promptly, using water based skin care products and medicated OTC creams, soaps lotions and gels.

Some myths we should dispel about acne are:
•    Eating chocolates and drinking soda gives you acne – (this is NOT true).
•    Sunscreen aggravate acne – (this is NOT true).
•    You can’t wear make-up if you have a breakout – (this is NOT true).
•    Adults don’t get acne – (this is NOT true).

In conclusion, a personalised and professional treatment approach should be the way forward when dealing with acne since it is not a one size fit all concept. Some products which are advertised and marketed for addressing this problem can be unjustifiably expensive since the marketing strategies target the psychological needs of the person suffering with acne. So don’t be caught up with the myths, know the truth about acne and get the help you deserve.

For further advice consult the pharmacist at Medicine Express PHARMACY located at 223 Camp Street, between Lamaha and New Market Streets. If you have any queries, comments or further information on the above topic kindly forward them to medicine.express@gmail.com or send them to 223 Camp Street, N/burg.
Tel #225-5142.