Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest
Benzoyl peroxide is the main ingredient found in many over-the-counter products for treating acne. The label should be read carefully to find out how much of this chemical is actually in the product. When trying these for the first time, it is advisable to start off with the lowest dose, or skin irritation could occur, exacerbating the problem. 2.5% is usually the lowest dose and this can also cause the skin to become dry and irritated, but this problem will mostly clear up after a few days. These products are meant to be used over the whole area affected by acne, so don't just dab it on single zits.
Even touching the face can worsen acne. Without realizing it, most of us touch our faces many times throughout the day. The problem is that our hands contain oils and bacteria that will increase the acne symptoms. In fact, all objects, including eyeglasses and telephone handsets, that make contact with the face must be clean. Hair, particularly long hair, also touches your face, so it is important to keep your hair clean and oil free. Fabric accessories such as hats and headbands should be avoided or used as little as possible.
Do not pick, press or rub your pimples. These actions actually increase the sebum production and rupture the membranes below your skin. The infection and sebum will spread underneath your skin and cause more pimples. Also, you risk increasing the chances of leaving scars on your face.
Frequently mistaken for acne, rosacea is a skin condition most commonly found in adults between 30 and 60 years of age. Unlike acne vulgaris, rosacea does not involve comedones, and appears only in areas that are likely to flush when we're embarrassed, excited or hot primarily the face, neck and chest. The skin is bumpy, red and oily in appearance, and may also involve papules and pustules. Rosacea begins as an episodic inflammation, or a temporary annoyance. Left untreated, however, it can become a chronic condition, causing facial scarring. If you think you may have rosacea, it's best to contact a dermatologist right away.
Sometimes puberty and stress can combine to make acne even worse. Find the causes of stress and work on reducing or eliminating it. The acne itself can lead to stress and then you have a vicious cycle.
Let's face it. Picking, squeezing, scratching, digging, and popping zits is irresistible. (Sometimes even fun if it's a juicy pus-filled whitehead). But performing acne surgery with your own fingers is going to lead to infection or permanent scars.
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