Many of us, as teenagers, have suffered the complications of acne. Whiteheads, blackheads and the swollen, red, pus-containing lesions we call pimples is a disease common in adolescents called acne vulgaris. Eighty percent of adolescents experience it. Moderate acne is believed to be a 'normal' phase of puberty, continuing throughout the teen years.
When acne is severe, it can be highly traumatic to a teenager, leaving life-long emotional and physical scars. Severe acne has a great impact on the manner teenagers view themselves. Effects can include social withdrawal, low self-esteem and self-confidence, anger, poor body image, embarrassment, depression and discouragement. Unless it receives a holistic treatment, entering adulthood will most likely not imply the end of severe acne. It is a sign that there is something happening within the teen that needs to be addressed on an emotional as well as a physical level.
During puberty (between 11 and 14 years old) and throughout the adolescence years, augmented androgen hormone's levels stimulate the sebaceous glands to grow and secrete more sebum. When there is excess sebum production, the follicle can become blocked. Also during adolescence, the skin cells of the follicle lining shed more rapidly and can produce sticky clumps. Bacteria and dead skin cells can combine with the sebum in the clogged pore.
One type of bacteria specifically involved in acne is Proprionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). P. acnes lives in the skin of every person; even individuals who don't suffer acne. The sebum that is discharged to the skin is used by P. acnes as food. However, when sebaceous glands are clogged with sebum, the P. acnes multiply rapidly and produce irritating fatty acids from the degraded sebum, producing an immune reaction. Inflammation is the result, with redness, swelling, and pain.
To alleviate an acne-prone face, wash it gently twice a day. Rinse well using warm water and pat dry with a clean soft towel. Do not scrub with a washcloth or use high pH, harsh soaps or abrasive cleansers. Acne can be worsened by too much friction. Mild calendula soap is fine. Don't over wash your face because this can make it dry and irritated. Skin must maintain the adequate pH levels to ensure a smooth complexion.
Beware of skin care solutions that include chemical preservatives, coloring agents or fragrance. These chemicals can worsen the problem. If applying cosmetics, use water-based, oil-free foundations sparingly and carefully wash them off before going to bed. Look for biological products elaborated with ingredients that are not likely to cause or aggravate acne. Finally, use a nonscented moisturizer. When skin is dry, it secretes more oil and the oil is more likely to become trapped in pores.
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