Acne is a skin condition marked by pimples, such as whiteheads, blackheads, or even
raised, red ones that hurt. These pimples show up on the face, neck, shoulders, and/or
back. Acne mostly strikes teenagers and young adults. For some, acne, or the scars it can
leave, persist into adulthood. Acne results when oil ducts below the skin get clogged with
secretions and bacteria. Factors that help cause acne include:
Hormone changes during adolescence
Changes in hormone levels before a woman's
menstrual period or during pregnancy
Heavy or greasy lotions or makeup
Emotional stress
Nutritional supplements that have iodine
Cooking oils, tar, or creosote in the air.
Creosote is often used as a wood preservative.
Putting pressure on the face by sleeping on
one side of the face or resting your head in your hands
Birth control pills, steroids,
anti-convulsive medications, and lithium (used to treat some forms of depression)
Most cases of acne can be treated with the Self-Care Tips listed below. When this is not enough, a doctor can prescribe topical ointments, Retin A cream or gel, and/or antibiotics.
Is your acne very bad and do you have signs of an
infection with it, such as fever and swelling?  |
 |
| Are the pimples big and painful? |
 |
| Have you tried self-care and it doesn't help or it
makes your skin worse? |
|
Time is the only real cure for acne, but these tips can help:
Keep your skin clean. Using a
clean washcloth every time, work the soap into your skin gently for a minute or two and 
rinse
well.
Try an astringent lotion, de-greasing pads,
or a face scrub.
Ask your doctor for the name of a good acne
soap.
Leave your skin alone! Don't squeeze,
scratch, or poke at pimples. They can get infected and leave scars.
Use an over-the-counter lotion or cream
that has benzoyl peroxide. Follow the directions as listed.
Wash after you exercise or sweat.
Wash your hair at least twice a week and
keep it off your face.
For men: Wrap a warm towel around your face
before you shave. This will make your beard softer. Always shave the way the hair grows.
Don't spend too much time in the sun. Don't
use a sunlamp.
Use only water-based makeup. Don't use
greasy or oily creams, lotions, or makeups.
HEALTH AT HOME - Your Complete Guide to Symptoms, Solutions, and Self-Care © 1999 by Don R. Powell. American Institute for Preventive Medicine.
Date updated 02/01/99