The skin is the body’s first line of defense against invading germs. Our skin constantly protects us from bacteria of all kinds, but it doesn’t always fight them. These bacteria can contribute to skin problems, acne, and other infections. Generally, people between the ages of 11 and 30 are affected by acne, and in some cases, the breakouts persist into middle age and beyond.
Acne develops when pores in your skin become clogged as a result of excessive sebum and a build-up of dead skin cells. This creates an environment in which bacteria can thrive. Your body produces more sebum and dead skin cells when your hormones fluctuate, which is why acne tends to flare up during that period (generally, this happens in teenagers and young adults). In older adults, it is most common in women just before menstruation, during pregnancy and at the onset of menopause.
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Researches on Acne Treatments
Though traditional treatments can be super effective, they all have downsides. Some are becoming less effective due to increasing resistance, or they have other cons, such as irritation, redness, itching, issues during pregnancy, and more. Fortunately, scientists are consistently researching and developing new treatments to fight against acne. Below are listed some of the most exciting acne treatments available or coming soon:
- Nanotechnology For Acne
This technology has tremendous potential in dermatology for both cosmetic and medical applications. In fact, many over-the-counter products utilise nano-vehicles to deliver active agents for skin rejuvenation and sun protection more effectively. Nanoscale materials can target acne-causing immune cells and reduce pain and swelling in acne lesions.
- Lasers For Acne
Laser and other light therapies seem like the best acne treatments, just beam a light to make the acne disappear, but their results are less predictable, even under the supervision of skilled dermatologists. Still, these treatments can be an effective part of an acne treatment plan. This treatment kills bacteria and shrinks the oil gland, restoring normal oil production. There’s no clear evidence on who will see clearer skin or how much the skin will clear when treated with a laser or other light therapy, but results from this therapy are generally long-lasting. However, to maintain the results, one needs frequent follow-up treatments once or twice a year.
- Chemical Peels
Medical professionals are increasingly opting for such peels to combat acne pop-ups. The chemicals speed up exfoliation and help prevent pores from becoming blocked. This treatment has proved to be effective so far. It has shown a reduction of around 50% in acne lesions after four to six peels.
- Steroid Injections
Many people are turning to injections of cortisone to tackle the more severe cystic form of acne. Cortisone works by reducing inflammation. Its results can be far more fruitful than stubborn cysts that take several days to clear up. All in all, this treatment is probably used as a quick fix, i.e., before any occasion or another important event.
- Probiotics
Instead of blasting the skin microflora to oblivion with antibiotics and lasers, medical professionals are researching probiotics that can improve acne lesions by fighting harmful bacteria and calming cells that respond to them, thereby reducing inflammation. There are a slew of products in the pipeline, but if you are keen to try the treatment, then you can give it a go now after discussing it with your dermatologist.
- Acupuncture
This treatment has been around for centuries and is really effective in treating acne. Acupuncture significantly enhances acne outcomes when combined with standard treatments such as oral antibiotics and retinoids. It is an alternate option available for those who have experienced adverse reactions to the traditional therapies. As long as you are needle-phobic, you may want to explore this option if your acne has been tricky to treat.
Acne medications
No one knows exactly what causes acne. Hormone changes, such as those during the teenage years and pregnancy, probably play a role. There are many myths about what causes acne. Even chocolate and greasy food are blamed for the ugly pimple, and there is little evidence available that foods have much effect on acne in most people.
Another common myth is that dirty skin causes acne, but that’s not true for blackheads and pimples. Stress doesn’t cause acne, but it can make it worse. If you have acne, clean your skin gently, avoid touching it, and try to stay out of the sun. Also, acne treatment medications and creams are available to keep your skin clear and blemish-free, giving you a flawless smile. Meet your dermatologist to identify the best acne medication you should use.
Commonly prescribed acne medications include Retino A cream, A Ret gel, Acnedap gel, Aziderm cream, and more. Check the AllDayChemist acne category to find the acne product range.
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