Acne occurs when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil, dead skin, or bacteria. To be considered acne, there needs to be at least 5 pimple outbreaks a month. There are several kinds of acne:
- Blackheads. These are open to the surface and black in color. They are filled with excess oil and dead skin cells. The oil’s reaction to air causes the black color.
- Whiteheads. These are closed at the surface and are white in color. They occur when oil and skin cells prevent a clogged hair follicle from opening.
- Papules. These are small, inflamed red or pink bumps. They may be sensitive to the touch and may indicate moderate to severe acne.
- Pustules. These are another kind of inflamed pimple. They resemble a whitehead with a ring around the bump and are filled with white or yellow pus.
If you are struggling with acne, don’t squeeze or pop your zits because it risks scars and the spread of the infection. Be sure to eat healthy foods and decrease the amount of carbs in your diet. Exfoliate, steam and deep clean your skin on a regular basis. And be proactive. 100% of acne is controllable and preventable. With the help of a physician, the severity and lifetime of acne can be reduced by greater than 80%. Acne treatments can range from topical prescriptions to light or laser therapy. Results may take time, but often patients enjoy dramatic improvement in a matter of weeks.