The most common type of acne emerges as we enter puberty. This is because the production of our skin oil (called sebum) is controlled by the sex hormones (androgens). The more testosterone, 5-testosterone (DHT) and 5-androstene-317diol we produce, the more sebum our bodies make. Sebum is excreted by our pores as a natural way to keep our skin moist, supple and waterproof.
When we make too much sebum it can mix with bacteria and dead skin cells and block the pores. The bacteria grows which puts pressure on the clogged pore and the result is a blackhead or pimple. The theory of acne treatment is actually fairly simple and straightforward. Make an effort to minimize the body's production of sebum and continue to keep the skin free of oil and bacteria.
The practice is, naturally, a little more complex because you need to do these things without aggravating the problem.
It can be unwise to mess with hormone production, particularly at such a crucial time of development, and using harsh astringents to dry your skin will leave it cracked, red and sore.
The answer lies in simple changes to your diet, careful prescription of vitamins and the application of specially formulated soaps and cleansers.
Acne is not life-threatening and it will be part of your life for many years. Harsh prescription drugs may get rid of the visible signs of acne but they are rarely justified in any but the most severe cases.
Controlling your acne starts with your diet. First you have to fix your inside before you can treat the outside. As you've heard many, many times, our modern high fat, fast food habits are extremely bad. Avoid processed, packaged food and eat only fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly the leafy green ones. Lean meat and nuts in moderation are fine and drink mostly water. Stay away for any sugary juices or carbonated sodas and reduce the consumption of dairy products like milk and ice cream.
You should consider taking supplemental vitamins but overdosing on certain vitamins can do you more harm than good. It's also a good idea to look for a vitamin program that is designed to specifically target acne.
Keeping your skin clear of excess oil and free of bacteria is a significant portion of your acne regimen. There are many soaps and cleanser formulated escpecially to keep your skin clean without reducing the natural oils that keep your skin smooth and supple.
Finally, resist the temptation to squeeze or pop your pimples. This can promote infection and even scarring that will remain with you for the rest of your life.
Acne can't be cured but you can control it. Proper diet and a consistent cleansing regimen will reward you with a clear complexion free of blemishes.
