What You Always Wanted to Know About Acne But Were Afraid to Ask

Author: Ravi Shrivastava
Source: ezinearticles.com

Acne vulgaris is a skin disorder frequently seen among teenagers and manifests upon the skin in parts like the face, neck, shoulders and the chest. Although not regarded as a serious health issue, acne’s occurrence often punctures the self confidence of those acutely conscious of their appearance. There is also the risk of scarring, which is one its more serious after effects.

How does acne occur?

Acne happens when the pores present in the sebaceous glands in the skin get blocked or clogged – this in turn leads to the collection of sebum in a part known as comedon. Once this happens, acne-causing bacteria called Propionicum acne seek out this particular area and trigger off inflammation by killing white blood cells.

Acne that is non-inflammatory can also be seen in some patients. Depending upon the clogging area, acne is also known as whiteheads, blackheads, zits, pimples (one of its more popular names), manula or cysts.

Why does acne occur?
To be frank, no expert on acne knows for sure. Most blame this disorder on heredity and hormonal variations. Some also indicate factors like what you eat, your age and hygiene to play a role.

How do you know you are affected by acne?
Acne makes its presence felt with eruptions on the facial skin. Depending on its type, acne may manifest as pus within the inflamed area, while some will just be hard to the touch. While most types of acne can be tolerated, some can be quite irritating, painful and itchy.

How is acne diagnosed?
Quite often, there is no need for acne to be diagnosed clinically, as your doctor can diagnose it based on the symptom. However, in severe cases, an endocrinogist may enter the picture and may ask for hormonal tests.

And now for the million-dollar question – how can acne be treated effectively?
Acne is generally treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications available as ointments, lotions etc. But in more severe instances, a dermatogist’s expertise may be called for. In most cases, drugs that can reduce P. acne infection and reduce sebum generation are recommended.

What are the most common medications prescribes to treat acne?
Some of the most recommended anti-acne drugs are salicyclic acid, benzoyl peroxide, Azelex (azelaic acid), and antibiotics. Other methods like laser therapy, dermabrasion, and skin punching are also in vogue these days.

Can you tell me more about these drugs?
Azelaic Acid (Azelex 20%): [Azelex Cream] is saturated carboxylic acid found in its naturally occurring form. It is a first-line killer of acne-causing bacteraia and is prescribed for the treatment of mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne.

Antibiotics: Antibiotics like Erythromycin, Clindamycin and Salicylic acid have been found to be effective in treating acne – their anti-bacterial properties reduce inflammation by killing the P.acne bacteria responsible for inflammation.

Benzoyl peroxide: It is an important ingredient of most acne creams for its ability to eliminate P.acne bacteria. Available as both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications.

If you are prescribed any of these medications for treating acne, you should take it strictly under medical supervision.

Can acne be prevented?
A balanced diet and healthy habits can go a long way in preventing the occurrence of acne. Cleaning the face regularly and avoiding poor quality cosmetics can help prevent clogging of facial pores.

Many teenagers and even some adults suffer from acne, a skin disorder. Buy Azelex Cream online and get rid of unwanted acne with the least side effects – visit the online drug store today.