subject: Help For Your Acne Condition [print this page] Acne is a skin condition that affects millions of Americans, including teenagers, young adults, and older adults. Acne can present on the skin in many different forms, including whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, or cysts on the chest, back, or face. There are many misconceptions regarding the causes of acne. It is not caused by dirty skin, too frequent washing, or because of certain foods. The true cause of acne is over-production of an oily substance produced by skin glands called sebum. This over-production leads to clogged pores which attract bacteria and produce skin infections. Your dermatologist in Costa Mesa can give you more information regarding causes and treatments for acne.
Taking Care of Your Skin
A regular daily hygiene regimen is important to keep acne under control. This is especially true for teenagers. Part of a daily skin care regimen should include daily baths or showers using a mild anti-bacterial soap. Avoid hot water, which can dry the skin. Just because you have acne does not mean you should not moisturize your skin. Moisture is important for the overall health of the skin. Moisturizers should be oil-free to minimize oil on the face.
Proper Diet and Stress Reduction
You can help control the recurrence of acne by having a proper diet rich in fruits and vegetables and by drinking plenty of water. Drinking enough water will keep your skin hydrated and make the skin healthier. Certain triggers, such as stress, can make acne worse. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga or deep-breathing may help reduce stress and prevent acne outbreaks. A Costa Mesa dermatologist may also have other recommendations for you on diet and stress reduction that will help control your acne.
Dangers of Breaking the Skin
Your dermatologist will tell you not to squeeze a pimple or break the skin. This can lead to skin irritation, produce infections, and cause scarring. If you have a pimple that seems ready to come to a head, apply a warm compress and allow the natural process to occur.
Dermatologist's Treatments for Acne
Certain cases of severe acne cannot be controlled by preventative measures and will require treatment by a dermatologist in Costa Mesa. For any acne problems that produce painful cysts, inflammation, or dark patches on the skin, you should contact your dermatologist right away. The dermatologist has effective treatment methods for acne, including Accutane, oral antibiotics, and topical antibiotics. The dermatologist will monitor your acne and may need to adjust the treatments for the most effective results.
