Acne is an inflammatory skin disease that affects many people and all skin types, not just oily skin , including adult women . It manifests itself in different forms, such as papules, pustules, whiteheads and blackheads , and can have significant psychological repercussions on those who suffer from it. To better understand how to eliminate acne on the face, it is essential to explore the causes of acne, the local treatments available, and the steps to follow to achieve clearer skin.
What causes acne?
Acne is primarily caused by an overproduction of sebum , an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands. This excessive sebum secretion can clog the skin's pores , leading to the formation of closed (whiteheads) and open (blackheads) comedones . Various factors can contribute to this overproduction, including:
- Hormonal fluctuations : Often linked to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause, these fluctuations can worsen acne in adult women.
- Stress : It can cause increased sebum production and exacerbate cases of acne .
- Diet : Certain foods, especially those high in sugar and dairy, can influence the onset of acne.
- Medications : Certain drug treatments can also cause acne to worsen.
Local treatments for acne
To effectively treat acne, the use of topical treatments is essential. These treatments are specifically formulated to act directly on skin lesions, reducing inflammation, eliminating bacteria and unclogging pores. Here are some of the most commonly used ingredients and products:
1. Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most effective treatments for acne. Here's how it works:
- Antibacterial properties : It kills Propionibacterium acnes bacteria, which are responsible for inflammation and pimple formation.
- Reduction in sebum production : It helps reduce sebum secretion, which limits the conditions conducive to the appearance of acne.
- Exfoliation : It promotes cell turnover, helping to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores.
Benzoyl peroxide is available in different concentrations, usually from 2.5% to 10%. It is advisable to start with a lower concentration to assess skin tolerance and gradually increase if necessary.
2. Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is another key ingredient in acne treatment , and it’s especially effective for non-inflammatory types of acne, like blackheads and comedones. Here are its main benefits:
- Exfoliation : Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into the pores and helps exfoliate dead skin cells. This reduces buildup that can lead to clogged pores.
- Reduced inflammation : It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help decrease the redness and swelling associated with acne lesions.
- Reduction of blackheads : By unclogging the pores, it helps prevent the formation of new comedones.
It is often found in products in the form of lotions, gels or creams.
3. Topical retinoids
Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, are particularly effective in treating both inflammatory and non-inflammatory forms of acne. Their benefits include:
- Regulation of cell renewal : They help prevent the accumulation of dead cells that clog pores, thus reducing the formation of blackheads and pimples.
- Improved skin texture : Retinoids promote smoother, more even skin by stimulating collagen production.
- Anti-inflammatory properties : They also help reduce inflammation associated with acne.
Common topical retinoids include tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene. They should be used with caution because they can cause skin irritation, especially early in treatment.
4. Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)
Alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, are used to gently exfoliate the skin. They are particularly useful for:
- Remove Dead Cells : AHAs help exfoliate the skin's surface, preventing the buildup of dead cells that can cause blackheads.
- Improve the appearance of acne scars : They promote cell turnover, which can help fade the appearance of scars.
These acids are often found in cleansers, serums or masks.
5. Green tea products
Some studies have shown that green tea extracts may help reduce acne. Their beneficial effects include:
- Anti-inflammatory properties : Green tea is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which can reduce skin inflammation.
- Reduced sebum production : Some green tea products can also help regulate sebum secretion.
Other measures to be taken
In addition to local treatments, other measures can help reduce acne and improve skin condition:
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Adopt a proper skincare routine : Use gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers and moisturizers specially formulated for oily skin. Avoid products with heavy oils that can clog pores.
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Avoid touching your face : Hands can transfer bacteria and impurities to the skin, making acne worse.
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Eat a balanced diet : Favor foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, and limit consumption of refined sugars and dairy products.
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Manage stress : Techniques like yoga, meditation or regular exercise can help reduce stress and, therefore, sebum production.
Consultation with a professional
In cases of very severe acne , it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. The latter may prescribe more powerful treatments, such as antibiotics or hormonal therapies, depending on the severity of the acne and the individual needs of the patient.
Conclusion
Acne is a complex disease that requires a personalized approach to its treatment. By understanding the causes of acne and adopting appropriate local treatments, it is possible to reduce the appearance of papules, pustules , whiteheads and blackheads. With patience and an appropriate skincare routine, it is entirely possible to achieve clearer skin and limit the psychological repercussions associated with this condition.