Conditions
ACNE
SymptomsAcne can involve the face, scalp, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms and legs. The lesions can be any of several types and more than one type of lesion may be present at the same time. These lesions fall into three categories:
• Blackhead: a follicle plug made up of dried sebum, dead skin and hair cells, and a skin chemical called melanin that gives the blackhead its dark colour.
• Whitehead: a follicle appearing as a white or skin-colored bump under the skin.
• Papule, pustule, or nodule: a more serious lesion appearing red and swollen due to inflammation or infection of the tissue around the clogged follicle which is often painful and feels hard. This can lead to scarring in most people.
Causes
Acne most often begins during puberty (usually 11-14 years of age), the period when the body increases production of hormones called androgens. Androgens cause sebaceous glands to get bigger and make more sebum. This is a normal body function. Sometimes, however, the body's response to the increase in androgens is greater than it should be and, the body makes too much sebum.
Mixed with the dead skin and hair cells inside the follicle, the extra sebum does not easily make its way out of the follicle, resulting in a plugged follicle or acne. Normal skin-surface bacteria are sometimes trapped inside the clogged follicle. The most common bacteria in acne is called Propionibacterium acnes. The trapped sebum becomes a good environment for causing infection.
Androgen overactivity can occur at any age, and is equally possible in males and females. A family history of acne can increase the risk of developing the condition. Some women will also notice their acne gets worse before each menstrual period.
Other causes include cosmetics (e.g. skin creams, hair care products), work-related substances (e.g. restaurant grease, motor oil), tight-fitting clothing or sporting equipment (eg, motorcycle helmets, chin straps), and long hair. Some medications (e.g. steroids and birth control pills) can also cause acne.
How to treat it
There is no actual cure for acne, although treatment can help to control the condition. Perhaps what is more important is to try to identify and remove any underlying cause of the condition. Zinc is an essential element found in every cell in our body.
Zinc helps maintain a healthy immune system, and can assist in the prevention and treatment of skin disorders including acne. In addition there are other medications that work by decreasing production of sebum, controlling skin cell shedding, and killing skin bacteria, and may be available over-the-counter for treating mild to moderate cases. Check with your doctor to discuss what is best for you.
Your local pharmacist is an excellent source of information about appropriate medications that may also be helpful in your treatment.
Lifestyle considerations
Acne can cause significant psychological problems for the sufferer including social withdrawal, decreased self-esteem, poor body image, depression, anger, and frustration. Family and friends, therefore, need to understand the effect acne can have on the sufferer and offer positive support.
Do not pick or squeeze acne lesions. This can result in increased inflammation and increase the risk of developing scars. A dermatologist (a specialist in the treatment of skin conditions) has specific tools for safely emptying or removing these lesions.
Wash the skin with a mild soap twice daily and pat the skin dry. More frequent cleaning and/or scrubbing can actually worsen acne. Do not use abrasive sponges or cloths. Always use make-up labelled noncomedogenic (does not encourage the formation of comedones).
When shaving, use a gel instead of a cream. A double-edged razor is better than an electric shaver. Shave in the shower when possible - the steam helps to soften whiskers. Always shave in the direction the whiskers grow.
Sourced from:
www.medicinenet.com
www.emedicinehealth.com
www.relieve-acne.com
How Herron Can Help
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Cod Liver Oil 275
Cod Liver Oil 275 is a rich natural source of vitamins A and D, and assists in maintaining healthy skin and night vision. Ideal for a healthy respiratory tract during colds and flu. more -
Cod Liver Oil 1000
For a rich natural source of vitamin A and D3, Cod Liver Oil 1000mg provides a fortified strength dosage for healthy skin and cold and flu protection. more -
Zinc Complex
Zinc supplement to help reduce the incidence of acne and minor skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis, while also helping maintain a healthy immune system. more