Acne is one of the most prevalent chronic skin conditions in the world. It is an indiscriminate condition, striking millions of people from all walks of life, all over the world.
There are many causes for acne, diet, the environment, and even heredity can be a major factor. Additional studies have indicated that excess hormones in the sebaceous glands may actually be the main cause of acne.
To those who suffer from acne, its impact can be overwhelming. Acne brings with it the discomfort of having to face people on a day-to-day basis. The stress of having acne can greatly reduce the self-esteem of those who suffer from it. Skin experts realizing these problems, have developed some guidelines for acne prevention.
The number one rule is never to try squeezing, or picking the lesions that the acne causes. This is important because when you squeeze, or pick the lesion, it may cause scarring, or even the spread of acne to other locations on the face or body.
The simplest acne prevention guideline is to be sure to wash your face with mild, or sulfur soap, a minimum of twice a day. When doing so, it is important to remember not to scrub your face hard, but to use a gentle circular motion and to pat your face dry with a soft towel. Taking a little time to protect yourself with acne prevention guidelines will go a long way in helping you to control your acne.
Being sure to avoid skin products that have an oil base will also assist in preventing an outbreak of acne. If you wear make-up, make certain to purchase make up that will not clog your pores. This may cost a little more, but you will be happy with the acne prevention offered by this care.
Another acne prevention suggestion is to avoid the airborne grease most commonly found in fast food restaurants. Do you or your teenager play sports? The friction caused by the rubbing that occurs when wearing sports equipment can cause an onset of acne. It is recommended for acne prevention that you do everything you can to minimize any rubbing or friction caused by your sports equipment.
Some experts believe that a strong program of acne prevention, given time to work, may be all that is necessary to clear up mild cases of acne. While this may work, it could take months, or even up to a year to work. Generally speaking, no one wants to wait that long.
An acne prevention specialist can recommend nonprescription medications, and topical creams to help with your efforts. Most of these products will contain Benzoyl Peroxide, which works effectively as an acne prevention agent.
These types of acne prevention medications are found in just about all pharmacies, and even some grocery stores. Benzoyl Peroxide, with strong antibacterial properties, is the active ingredient in the great majority of these products, and has been proven effective for reducing or eliminating acne-causing bacteria.
Salicylic acid is another effective ingredient to look for when trying to find an acne prevention medication. This ingredient will reduce or even eliminate the shedding of skin that often accompanies an acne problem.
There are many different acne prevention medications on the market today that have been developed to stop the growth of acne causing bacteria. Not all are without risk of side effects. Some are so strong that they can have serious side effects.
Accutane is one of them and is only prescribed for acne prevention if nothing else works. Accutane can have some serious side effects including red, dry, irritated skin and in extreme cases, birth defects.
So, be smart about your acne prevention program. Speak with a dermatologist when selecting any acne medications.
Carl DiNello is an Article Author whose articles are featured on websites covering the Internets most popular topics.
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