Acne, or as it is known by its scienitific name acne vulgaris, is a very common skin condition caused by changes in our pilosebaceous units. A pilosebaceous unit consists of a hair follicle and a sebaceous gland. 90% of all teenagers have problems with acne of some degree and it is common for the problem to persisit into adulthood.
Today, several different acne treatment options are available and which is best is dependent on the severity of the problem. Very potent acne medication normally requires a doctor’s prescription while milder products can be purchased over the counter.
Mild to moderate acne is often treated with products containing benzoyl perozxide, such as bar soaps, washes, creams and gels. The amount of benzoyl peroxide in a product can vary a lot between different products so check the strenght before buying. Benzoyl peroxide helps by dissolving the keratin that plugs the pores and will aslo help kill. acne related bacteria a relatively slow growing, typically aerotolerant bacterium linked to acne.
Antibiotics can also be used to treat acne, either by applying them directly on the skin or by ingesting them. Topical antibiotics will kill the bacteria present on the skin and in the follicles and is a popular choice among patients suffering from acne on a relatively small part of skin that is easy to reach, e.g. the chest or face. Persons with widespread acne or acne in hard to reach spots like the shoulders and neck often opt for oral antibiotics instead, although they will have a larger impact on the body and can for instance cause stomach problems. Always tell your doctor about any hormonal contraceptives that you are using because some of the commonly used antibiotics may interfere with the efficiency of such contraceptives.
A special type of acne vulgaris is the blackhead, a condition formally known as open comedo. Blackhead is a name used for excess oil accumulated in a duct to a sebaceous gland. Contrary to popular belief, blackheads are not caused by poor skin hygiene. On the countrary, excessive scrubbing of the skin can cause increased dryness which in turn can cause more blackheads as the body increase the production of oils needed in the skin.
A lot of people want to know how to remove blackheads since they find them unsightly, but there is often no medical need to remove blackheads since the body normally eliminates them without any special coaxing. It is possible to treat blackheads with acne medication such as salicylic acid. A popular over the counter alternative to prescription medicine is a simple adhesive strip that is placed on the skin and removed after 5-10 minutes, taking the blackheads underneath with it.
Tags: acne, acne blackheads, acne medication, acne meds, acne treatment, Blackheads, removing blackheads