Acne or Pimples is a skin condition characterized by whiteheads, blackheads, and inflamed red pimples or "zits."
Acne commonly appears on the face and shoulders, but may also occur on the trunk, arms, legs, and buttocks. It is one of the most common skin conditions. Although acne is not a serious threat to the health, yet it can lead to scarring and disfigurement of the face that can have a significant impact on the patient.
Acne is most common in teenagers, but it can happen at any age, even as an infant. Three out of four teenagers have acne to some extent, probably caused by hormonal changes that stimulate oil production. However, people in their 30s and 40s may also have acne.
Causes
Acne tends to run in families and can be triggered by
Hormonal changes related to menstrual periods, pregnancy, birth control pills, or stress
Certain drugs (such as steroids, testosterone, estrogen, and phenytoin)
High levels of humidity and sweating
Despite the popular belief that chocolate, nuts, and other foods cause acne, this does not seem to be true
Symptoms
Blackheads
Crusting of skin eruptions
Cysts
Inflammation around the skin eruptions
Pustules
Redness around the skin eruptions
Scarring of the skin
Whiteheads
Types
Following are the commonly recognized types of Acne
Acne vulgaris
Acne rosacea
Acne fulminans
Acne medicamentosa
Acne keloidalis nuchae
Acne vulgaris
Acne rosacea
Acne conglobata
Acne cosmetica
Complications
Possible complications include
Changes in skin color
Cysts
Damage to self-esteem, confidence, personality, and social life
Permanent facial scars
Side effects of Accutane (including very dry skin and mucous membranes, high triglyceride levels, liver damage, and birth defects in an unborn baby; call your doctor right away if you become pregnant while taking this drug)
Side effects of other medications
Treatment
Take the following self-care steps to lessen the effects of acne
Clean your skin gently with a mild, non-drying soap with high TFM %. Remove all dirt or make-up. Wash once or twice a day, including after exercising. However, avoid excessive or repeated skin washing
Shampoo your hair daily, especially if it's oily. Comb or pull your hair back to keep the hair out of your face. Avoid tight headbands
Try not to squeeze, scratch, pick, or rub the pimples. Although it might be tempting to do this, it can lead to scarring and skin infections
Avoid touching your face with your hands or fingers
Avoid greasy cosmetics or creams. Look for water-based or "non-comedogenic" formulas. Take make-up off at night
A small amount of sun exposure may improve acne
Homeopathic treatment
Homeopathic treatment for Acne is strongly suggested. It helps in the following ways
Controls the tendency to have acne (often genetic, in severe cases)
Addresses underlying hormonal disturbance which gives one a proneness to have acne
Reduces excessive oiliness of skin
Reduces acne directly
Controls infection
Controls scar formation
Reduces hyperpignementation following acne
Controls tendency to scar formation following acne
Expectations (prognosis)
Acne usually subsides after adolescence, but may last into middle age. The condition generally responds well to treatment after a few weeks, but may flare up from time to time. Scarring may occur if severe acne is not treated. Some people, especially teenagers, can become significantly depressed if acne is not treated