Mediscene

Acne is one of the commonest skin problems in Sri Lanka as well as the world. However, many people consider it only as a cosmetic problem and believe that the remedy is beauty therapy. But it is wise to get dermatological opinion before you try various creams, ointments etc. With proper treatment your acne can be controlled.

= Acne occurs due to clogging of tiny pores where oil glands open on to the skin surface. Usually the cells there shed like the other skin cells without any problem. But in people with acne, dead cells tend to adhere and clog these pores. These tiny pores can get clogged by make up and cosmetics also. This causes optimum conditions for the bacteria there, called Propionobaterium acne and they multiply. Normally these bacteria are present in our skin but the number increases when pores are clogged. This leads to various changes and causes acne.

= Acne can take many forms such as 'blackheads' and 'whiteheads' where there is no inflammation and reddish pimples and cysts when there is inflammation.

= If you have severe acne, treatment is best taken from a dermatologist since it is a skin disease. There are proven methods to control acne.

= Many people grow out of acne in their late 20s and acne is hardly a problem after 40. But scars tend to remain. Acne treatment is targeted to prevent pore clogging, reduce new lesions and to kill acne causing bacteria.

= You cannot cure acne but can control it well.

= Acne is not contagious. Neither is it a serious disease.

= Acne is not due to dirty skin. Frequent washing with strong soap or scrubbing will only irritate your skin.

= Avoid oily skin creams and make up. Use water-based make up.

= Use sun screens or moisturizers that are labelled as non comedogenic so that they don't clog pores.

= Use a gentle cleanser or mild soap to wash away the make up and skin creams at night.

= Stress can worsen acne.

= Get dandruff under control. It can irritate the skin.

= Your friend's acne treatment is not the best for you. So stop self prescription. Also some acne treatments can have serious side effects. Do not use them without prescription.

=If you are prescribed treatments for acne you may need to use them for a long duration to get the benefit. Do not expect miracles overnight. Continue with the treatment for the full duration prescribed.

= There is no evidence that certain foods can cause acne but if you notice a pattern it is better to avoid those foods.