Acne Skin Care
Many of us, as teenagers, have experienced the complications of acne. Blackheads, whiteheads and the red, swollen, pus-containing blemishes we call pimples is a common disease in adolescents called acne vulgaris. Eight out of every ten adolescents experience it. Mild acne is believed to be a 'normal' phase of puberty, and it can continue throughout the teen years.
When acne is severe, it can be highly traumatic to an adolescent, producing life-long emotional and physical scars. Severe acne has significant impact on the manner teenagers view themselves. Consequences can include poor body image, low self-esteem and self-confidence, social withdrawal, embarrassment, depression, anger and discouragement. Unless it is treated in a holistic way, severe acne will most likely not disappear when entering adulthood. It is a signal that there is something happening within the adolescent that requires to be treated on an emotional as well as a physical level.
During puberty (about age 11 to 14) and throughout the teen years, augmented levels of androgen hormones make the sebaceous glands to grow and secrete more sebum. When there is excessive sebum production, the follicle can become plugged. Also during adolescence, the skin cells of the follicle lining shed more rapidly and can form sticky aggregations. Bacteria and dead skin cells can combine with the sebum in the blocked pore.
One type of bacteria with a specific influence over acne is Proprionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). Everyone has P. acnes living in their skin; even individuals who don't suffer acne. The sebum that is discharged to the skin is used by P. acnes as food. However, when sebum clogs the sebaceous glands, the P. acnes proliferate rapidly and produce irritating fatty acids from the degraded sebum, producing an immune response. the result is inflammation, with redness, swelling, and pain.
To cleanse an acne-prone face, gently wash it twice a day. Rinse carefully 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. Too much friction can worsen acne. You can obtain good results using mild calendula soap. Avoid over washing your face because this can make it dry and irritated. Skin must keep the proper pH levels to ensure a smooth complexion.
Beware of skin care solutions that contain artificial preservatives, fragrance or coloring agents. These chemicals can worsen the problem. If using cosmetics, use water-based, oil-free foundations sparingly and carefully wash them off every night. Look for biological products made with ingredients that are not likely to aggravate or cause acne. Finally, apply a nonscented moisturizer. If your skin is dry, it produces more oil and the oil is more likely to get trapped in pores.
A new acne skin care product is the latest answer for all your dermal ailments, including scars and imperfections. Its biological ingredients ensure a safe and promising skin regeneration effect.
Published July 15th, 2008
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