Acne is a common skin condition. It occurs most often in teenagers and young adults, but can persist into adulthood.
Symptoms
Whiteheads and/or
blackheads
Red and painful pimples
Deeper lumps (cysts or
nodules)
Causes
Acne results when oil ducts below the skin get clogged. Factors that help cause acne
include:
Hormone changes during
adolescence
Changes in hormone levels before a
female’s menstrual period or during pregnancy
Rich moisturizing lotions or oily makeup
Emotional stress
Nutritional supplements that have iodine
Some anticonvulsive medications (for
seizures) and lithium (used to treat bipolar disorder)
Illegal (anabolic) steroids
Most cases of acne can be treated with the Self-Care Tips listed below. When this is not enough, a doctor can prescribe topical ointments, Retin A cream or gel, and/or antibiotics.
Are the pimples big and painful or is your acne
very bad and do you have signs of an infection with it, such as a fever and swelling?  |
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| Have you tried self-care and it doesn't help or it
makes your skin worse? |
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Wash your skin, where the acne
appears, twice a day. Use a mild soap and a clean washcloth each time. Work the soap into
your skin gently for 1 to 2 minutes. Rinse well. Don’t scrub.
Wash after you exercise or sweat and wash
your hair at least every other day.
For males: To soften your beard, wrap a
warm towel around your face before you shave. Shave the way the hair grows.
Don’t squeeze, scratch, or poke at
pimples.
Use an over-the-counter lotion or cream
that has benzoyl peroxide. Follow the directions. Use oil-free and water-based (not greasy
or oil-based) creams, lotions, and makeups.
Don’t spend too much time in the sun,
especially if you take antibiotics for acne. Don’t use sun lamps.
HEALTH AT HOME - Your Complete Guide to Symptoms, Solutions, and Self-Care © 2002 by Don R. Powell. American Institute for Preventive Medicine.
Date updated 7/2/02