by Dora Clayton

Definition- Acne is defined as a skin condition caused by over active oil glands, blocking, clogging and plugging pores with skin, dirt and hair instead of evenly distributing oil over the skin surface. The exact cause of the acne must be established before a suitable acne remedy can be identified.

Recognizing acne- The condition is often incorrectly diagnosed or wrongfully recognized. This is most probably as a result of different skin conditions resembling acne. It is important to identify certain acne features such as excessively oily skin, white and black head break-outs and large bumps on and under the skin.

Types of acne- Acne can be classified as either inflammatory and non-inflammatory. The two most common types of non inflammatory acne are white- and blackheads. Whiteheads are formed when sebum and bacteria is trapped just below the skin surface. These lesions take the form of tiny white spots requiring a very close look before you will be able to notice them. Blackheads are formed when pores are open and sebum and dirty blocks the pore just as with the case of white heads. However the melanin and oxidizes contained in the sebum discolours to black or brown. Blackheads are very stubborn, they will not wash away easily and the black contents takes a very long time to drain. There two types on inflammatory acne namely papule’s and pustules. Papules form when the follicle wall is broken, white blood cells rush into the area and pores become painful and terribly inflamed. Pustules form when white blood cells surface after a couple of days. These inflamed areas can become even more inflamed, turning into nodules when follicles totally collapse causing very painful bumps or Cysts.

Triggers- Acne can be triggered by bad hygiene, unhealthy diet, insomnia, vitamin deficiency, stress or hormonal changes.

Treatments available- Acne treatments have developed so much over the past couple of years that you will be able to treat your condition will great success ranging from homemade remedies to prescription drugs in the form of antibiotics, topical creams and solutions.

Natural- Natural remedies are effective, affordable and easy for treating acne break outs. Mother nature has an acne remedy that will suit everybody. ACV or Apple Cider Vinegar is wonderful treatment for clearing acne and acne scars. Soak a cotton ball with ACV and dabbing the affected area, leave overnight. Calamine Lotion not only soothes and calms chickenpox but also dries and clears acne. Just dab a bit of lotion on the spot and leave to dry. Aloe gel or sap has a wonderful cooling and soothing affecting on the acne with regular application.

Plenty of water- Water is the key to flushing out poison and toxin build up in your blood and liver having a very negative effect on your skin. Your skin will love the detox effect from mere consumption of plenty water. You will notice the difference almost immediately, your skin will be soft, glowing and acne outbreaks significantly reduced or even cured.

Dietary deficiency- Acne can be caused by a lack in your diet in the form of vitamins and minerals. A great range of vitamin and mineral supplements are available at your pharmacy or local health store.

Medical advice- It is imperative to seek medical advice before and during acne treatment. Your health care professional is trained to identify your acne and skin type as well as the treatment that will suit your personal profile best.

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