Posted on 13th April, 2023 at 11:34:47 AM
We all have been teenagers and have bittersweet memories attached to that phase of our lives; we’re pretty sure that acnes are right at the top of that memory box! But sadly, acne is not age-specific; owing to various reasons, you can suffer from major breakouts at any stage of life and if not treated properly, they can be painful.
In this post, we're gonna help you get on the road to clear skin; you'll learn what's causing those acne breakouts and how to get rid of them using a holistic approach.
Acne: What is it and what causes it?
Acne occurs when the pores in the skin become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to inflammation and the formation of pimples. The underlying reasons can vary and include any or all of the factors given below
1. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes are one of the most common causes of acne. During puberty, the body undergoes a surge of hormones, including androgens, which can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This excess oil can mix with dead skin cells and clog pores, leading to the formation of pimples.
Hormonal fluctuations can also occur during the menstrual cycle, which can lead to breakouts around the chin, jawline, and other areas of the face. Hormonal imbalances, such as those that occur in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also contribute to the development of acne.
2. Stress
When the body is under stress, it produces hormones such as cortisol, which increases the production of oil in the skin and leads to clogged pores. Stress can also impair the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off acne-causing bacteria.
3. Diet
While the relationship between diet and acne is still being studied, there is some evidence to suggest that certain foods may contribute to the development of acne. Diets that are high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, for example, may lead to an increase in insulin levels, which can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. Dairy products may also contribute to the development of acne, as they contain hormones that can stimulate oil production.
4. Genetics
There is also a genetic component to acne, with studies suggesting that certain genes may make individuals more prone to developing acne. For example, a variation in the gene responsible for producing a protein called sebum may increase the likelihood of developing acne. Genetics can also influence the severity and duration of acne, with some individuals experiencing more severe and long-lasting breakouts than others.
5. Medications
Certain medications can also contribute to the development of acne. For example, some hormonal contraceptives can cause acne breakouts in some individuals, while other medications such as corticosteroids and lithium can also contribute to forming pimples.
6. Environmental Factors
Polluted air contains particles that can clog pores, while humidity can lead to an increase in oil production. Wearing extremely tight clothing or using certain hair or skin products can also contribute to the development of acne.
Tips to manage acne breakouts
There are many different acne removal treatments available, and the best approach will depend on the severity of the acne, the skin type, and other individual factors. To get you started, here are some common ways to remove those nasty pus-containing swellings
1. Topical Treatments
These treatments for mild to moderate breakouts include over-the-counter options such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and topical retinoids, as well as prescription options such as topical antibiotics or combination medications that include both an antibiotic and a retinoid.
2. Lifestyle Changes
Basic changes in lifestyle help reduce the severity and frequency of acne breakouts. These include:
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
- Getting regular exercise, which can help to reduce stress and improve overall health.
- Getting enough sleep which is important for overall health and can help reduce stress and inflammation.
- Managing stress through activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
- Avoid touching the face which can transfer bacteria and oil from the hands to the skin.
- Using non-comedogenic makeup and skincare products which are designed not to clog pores.
3. Consult a Dermatologist
For the best and safest results, we recommend consulting an expert. There are a variety of different treatments that a top dermatologist in Kolkata may recommend for treating acne. These can include prescription-strength topical treatments, oral medications such as antibiotics or hormonal contraceptives, or even procedures such as chemical peels or light therapy. A dermatologist can also guide how to care for the skin to prevent future breakouts and maintain healthy skin naturally.
Remember that not everyone is the same; what has worked for your friend or an influencer you follow, may not work for you. Moreover, keep in mind that acne is not caused by poor hygiene or a lack of cleanliness. Excessive washing or scrubbing can make acne worse by irritating the skin and causing further inflammation. Instead, it’s important to focus on addressing the underlying causes of acne to find an effective acne removal treatment.
