Acne in Adults - the Solution

By: Michael Russell

There are thousands of oil glands in the skin of the face, chest and back that lubricate the skin by producing oil. There are as many as 2000 oil glands per square inch just in the central part of the face. The oil generated flows through tiny ducts in the skin’s surface. When these ducts are plugged for some reason whether by dust, dead skin cells or bacteria, acne develops.

Below are some simple remedies that will help clear up the skin and possibly bring problematic adults a few steps closer to flawless skin. Items number 1 and 2 are ways to cope with acne when an adult already has it while item 3 enumerates steps on how to avoid getting acne.

I. Be Nice

If you already have a zit, avoid pressing, rubbing, picking or prematurely trying to get rid of the zit by manipulation as this allows bacteria to spread causing infection and scarring.

If the acne is covered, this means the pore just looks swollen like a tiny bump. Once it is popped, bacteria may leak onto the surrounding area making the situation even worse with inflammation and possibly secondary infection.

II. Proper Medication

Choose an over-the-counter drug that contains Benzyl Peroxide. This is a common component that helps dissolve the source of the plugged oil duct and degenerates the bacteria causing the infection.

Beware of medications that contain sulfur and resorcinol as they may irritate the skin. However it has been said that when properly applied over infected area, they may unplug oil glands.

III. Prevention Is Better Than Cure

It has been said that “An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure”, Take special care of acne prone areas like the face. Washing is a good way to keep clean. It helps avoid clogged pores. But even if an adult washed 20 times a day, acne is still a possibility. Too much of a good thing may end up bad for you. Excessive washing may result in dry skin. Dryness makes the skin itchy and sensitive.

Here are some suggestions on proper washing:

• Use mild soap
• Rub lightly with fingertips
• Use warm water
• Limit washing to once or twice a day

Beware of oil. There are a plethora of oil-based products in the market today. Certain moisturizers, pomades and even cleansers use oil as ingredients. Dermatologists recommend water-based alternatives instead. Lipsticks and eye makeup are exceptions as these go on surfaces that are not acne prone.

Avoid transference. Try not to constantly touch acne-prone area. Bacteria transference from the hand to the face is common and may lead to growing acne inadvertently.

Although some believe that food intake also affects acne development, it has yet to be supported by solid research. However constant visits to fast food restaurants where oily food is abundant may cause acne just because the very atmosphere emanates oil.

Acne can be bothersome to many adults primarily because they are genetically predisposed to have it. In this case, acne becomes a recurring problem and a visit to a dermatologist is necessary.