Acne - Causes, Home care, and Treatments

by Dr. Padmavathi Surapaneni

No More Breakouts

                   This isn’t news to anyone, but we feel it bears repeating: Acne is the most common skin condition among people and we’re guessing you’ve had at least a run-in or two with the frustrating spots - and you probably have some questions. So, we got senior dermatologist and cosmetologists, Dr Padmavathi Surapaneni, to answer every acne question you’ve ever wanted to ask..

What causes the breakout?

                   During puberty, hormones can cause the skin to make too much oil, resulting in clogged pores and bacterial infections that may aggravate acne. Intake of some foods could be another factor. Also, there is a genetic tendency in some families that causes severe acne. Hormonal imbalances and some medicines taken for other reasons can also cause pimples.

Do certain foods aggravate acne?

                  There is evidence that some diets may have an effect on acne. High consumption of dairy products raises the risk of getting acne because of the hormones in milk, cheese, and yogurt. However, subsequent studies have not supported the theory. Still other studies of acne’s relationship to nutrition have shown that a diet with a high glycaemic index, such as white breads, waffles, and other carbs, worsen acne.

Should I stop wearing make-up if I have acne?

                  You don’t have to stop wearing make-up altogether, but you might try going with a different type of product that is aqueous-based, without oil content. Look for cosmetics and toiletries with the label “non-comedogenic”, meaning that they don’t clog pores. If you’re noticing breakouts along the sides of your temples, hair creams or gels might be exacerbating your acne.

Does acne mean I’m not keeping my face clean enough?

                  Not necessarily. In fact, scrubbing too hard at your face can aggravate your acne, and using alcohol-based astringents can dry out the skin. Acne is triggered by hormones, and while gentle, regular cleansing with soap and warm water can sometimes help with mild breakouts, more significant acne requires more than just good hygiene.

Why do some adults have acne?

                  Although the hormonal fluctuations that cause acne are most common during the teen years, they can also affect adults. Women may experience hormonal swings during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause that result in acne breakouts.

Acne can also be a side effect of certain medications, such as anti convulsants and steroids drugs. Some people may also have a genetic predisposition to acne.

What care should be taken for acne-prone skin?
                 Wash twice or thrice with oil control face wash which contains salicylic or glycolic acids. Avoid scrubbing your skin and don’t pick pimples as that may leave bad marks. Wash hair regularly id scalp is very bad marks. Wash hair regularly if scalp is very oily to prevent pimples on hairline and shower bath areas.

What acne treatments are best for me?

                 For mild acne, topical anti-acne creams with clindamycin, retinoids and benzoyl peroxide can be applied at bedtime. For moderate acne, you require antibiotics along with topical creams. Your dermatologist may advise you peels if acne is resistant or leaving a mark. Blue-light laser is used to treat mild to moderate acne and will help reduce acne by destroying bacteria ‘P-Acne’ which is responsible for acne. For severe acne, you require antibiotics for a long time. Oral retinoids are used to reduce severe and resistant acne. If your acne is due to hormonal imbalance, your dermatologist may prescribe hormonal pills to correct the imbalances and acne after doing a hormonal test. 

 

Can I get rid of my acne scars?

                  Pimples, when they reduce, may leave dark or red spots, which may subside with a night cream, if not, you may require procedures like chemical peels or IPL light therapy; or a pigment laser treatment maybe advised depending on your type of marks.

                  Acne may leave pitted scars; fractional lasers are used to reduce scars and improve the texture of your skin. Needling treatment with derma roller can also up to some extent help clear the scar. If the scar is big and deeper, you may require a dermal filler to eliminate the scar.