Acne affects 85% of teenagers & many adults as well. The sheer number of products to treat acne can cause further distress; here's how to find the best treatment for you.
There are several different types of acne, the most common being acne vulgaris – the type of acne that begins in puberty and is the bane of many even into their 20's and 30's. The causes of acne are outlined in "Causes of Acne".
Fighting Acne
Your dietary choices can help decrease acne and build and maintain healthy skin. Good nutrition is the first line of defense against dreaded spots.
- Eat foods rich in vitamin A, C and E to keep skin healthy. Medical research shows that beta carotene, which is converted by the body into vitamin A, may reduce sebum production in the skin. Add brightly colored fruits and dark green vegetables to your diet. Citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, peppers, broccoli, cabbage, and potatoes, are especially rich in vitamin C.
- Vitamin B6 may help reduce acne by helping to balance hormones. Vitamin B6 is found in meat, fish, poultry, whole grains, beans, lentils, avocados, nuts, potatoes, bananas, and leafy greens.
- The mineral zinc helps to transport nutrients to the skin, promotes healthy hormone levels and advances healing. Seafood -especially oysters and prawns- poultry, yogurt, milk and whole grains contain ampke amounts of zinc.
- Omega 3 fatty acids help keep skin healthy, firm and clear. Omega 3 fatty acids are found in seafood such as salmon and tuna and in flax seed.
- Also try these natural skin tips.
Acne Treatments
The following are some ingredients to look for in over the counter products and which your doctor may also prescribe for you. Many treatments use a combination of these and other ingredients.
- Benzoyl peroxide helps to clear up acne in most cases of mild to moderate acne. You can get benzoyl peroxide without a prescription and it comes in a cream, gel, soap, ointment or pad form. Your doctor can advise on the varying strengths you will need and how often to apply it. If benzoyl peroxide doesn't seem to help after two months or is very irritating to your skin, see your doctor,
- Salicylic acid works by exfoliating the skin, effectively clearing up blocked pores and decreasing excessive oil. It is mainly used in mild to moderate acne.
- Antibiotics can be beneficial for eliminating acne. Antibiotic ointments are used just as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid ointments. Oral antibiotics have to be prescribed by your doctor, who will determine if they might work for you.
- Tretinoin is a treatment that contains vitamin A and can be a very good treatment for moderate to severe acne. It is often rubbed onto the skin once a day. Tretinoin will make your skin much more sensitive to sunlight: wear a sunscreen and cover up outdoors.
- Isotretinoin is a prescription medication only used to treat severe cystic acne. It is taken for only short durations as Isotretinoin can cause serious side effects including birth defects and miscarriages if taken during pregnancy or a month prior to pregnancy. You will need to carefully follow directions and be monitored by your doctor during your treatment.
The copyright of the article How to Treat Acne in Common Patient Ailments is owned by Noreen Kassem. Permission to republish How to Treat Acne in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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