What Causes Acne and Which Treatments Are Most Effective?

Although it is likely that there is more than one cause for acne it is generally understood that diet and a change in hormones are key factors.

There is no conclusive evidence that poor diet comprising an excessive quantity of foods rich in saturated fats such as chocolate, crisps and fried food are a major causal factor. These foods can affect one’s complexion and therefore should be eaten in moderation.

Suspicion about diet is more focused upon our western, high-glycemic diet which can cause the body to produce too much insulin and excess sebum (http://www.skincarephysicians.com/acnenet/treatment.html). Another theory links acne with dairy products. The theory holds that cows when pregnant produce hormones. These are then consumed when drinking their milk which in turn upsets the body’s natural hormonal balance.

The main sufferers of acne are teenagers going through puberty. Adults who suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome, or use certain progesterone-only contraceptive pills may also develop acne. Some cosmetic products that can be very greasy or medicines such as steroid creams for eczema or anti-epileptics, can also contribute to a breakout of acne (http://www.bupa.co.uk).

Acne usually appears when girls and boys begin to produce more testosterone, which increases the production of sebum (oil) in the skin. According to Bupa as many as four in five teenagers suffer from some form of acne. Although acne does not discriminate by gender, there are differences in how it affects boys and girls. Girls usually enter puberty before boys and therefore generally experience an earlier onset of acne. Boys’ skin is very different with larger pores and sebaceous glands which tend to produce more oil, so when boys enter puberty the appearance of acne can often be more severe. Acne tends to clear up much faster in girls due to timing and length of puberty. According to sciencenet (http://www.sciencenetlinks.com/pdfs/growth2_actsheet.pdf ) girls experience puberty between the ages of 9 and 13 years of age. Boys on the other hand, typically experience it between 10 and 16 and in some cases until they are 19 or 20.

A few helpful do’s and don’ts in the treatment of acne are:

Finding the right treatment for acne can often be a case of trial and error. Cetaphil as mentioned above is a special cleansing agent, which provides gentle and effective skincare. It is a non-irritant and non-comedogenic. It is especially good for retaining the natural pH balance of the skin. It is designed to be used in conjunction with other treatments to enhance their effect. It can be used as an all over body cleanser, not just limited to the facial area. Once applied, it can be removed with cottonwool pads or rinsed off with water.

Another cleanser to use is Freederm. This comes in a variety of washes and facial cleansers. One of the most effective ones is the exfoliating wash, which can help rid the skin of its dead skin cells. The Freederm gel is good to use in conjunction with the cleansing washes. It contains Nicotinamide, which is an anti-inflammatory that will reduce any redness and swelling of spots.

Some of the most effective products contain Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid. Panoxyl Aquagel and Quinoderm are often considered good products to start with, Both contain Benzoyl Peroxide and Quinoderm has the added antibacterial properties of Hydroxyquinoline Sulphate. Oxy have developed a holistic skincare range, which contains Benzoyl Peroxide too and has been especially formulated for male skin.

If the skin is oily, choose an acne gel as opposed to a cream or a lotion. Creams are typically best for dry skin.

Whichever product is chosen it is important that that the treatment be given a chance to work. The effect may not be seen for 4 to 6 weeks. It is also important to continue the treatment for the recommended period after the spots have cleared.
 
To keep the face clear of sweat it is recommended to keep facial wipes such as Savlon Antiseptic wipes, Neutrogena, Clearasil, or the new Freederm deep pore cleansing wipes, with you at all times.

If none of the over the counter medicines work, it may be time to see a doctor who in some cases may suggest taking a contraceptive pill or prescribing some stronger acne medication. A GP may also suggest seeing a dermatologist.