Acne is a skin condition that commonly affects adolescents and less frequently, adults. It results due to clogging of the skins pores with oil from the underlying glands. The clogged pores become easy target for bacterial infection. Eruptions called pimples or zits occur and these leave scars. In severe cases, the skin has painful pus-filled lesions called cysts. Acne treatment consists of preventive and reparative measures. Although a number of over-the-counter medications are effective, always consult a qualified dermatologist who can provide the right advice. Acne is a problem that vanishes as one moves into adulthood, but it can cause emotional distress and loss of self-esteem in the sufferers.

The oil from the sebaceous glands lubricates the skin and keeps it elastic. It is removed when the top layer of the skin is shed in normal wear and tear. However, factors like dirt, dust, poor personal hygiene and harsh chemicals affect the skin adversely. The glands also secrete more oil under the influence of higher hormone levels due to onset of puberty, premenstrual period or stopping or starting birth control pills. When all the aggravating factors persist, there is inflammation of the skin.

There are many types of skin lesions in acnes blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and cysts. A combination of over-the-counter preparations, good skin care and dietary changes is often sufficient for treating acne. For cysts, you would need specialist advice from a dermatologist.

Simple steps that would protect you from acne eruptions are:

Wash your face with slightly warm water twice a day especially when you get in from outdoors. Use a mild soap. Pat your skin dry and do not rub vigorously.

Do not use heavy make up and always remove make up immediately after the outing. Never go to bed with make up on.

Drink at least 12 glasses of water every day. You could throw in fruit and vegetable juices as well. Avoid tea, coffee, alcohol and aerated drinks.

Include fiber in your diet. Get plenty of salads, wholegrain cereals, sprouts and zinc-rich food like fish and apples.

Keep up a regular regimen of exercise to keep your weight under control. Exercise beats obesity, hypertension and constipation the three important triggers for excessive oil secretion.

Treat dandruff immediately with selenium-based shampoos. Wash your hair twice a week.

Topical treatment of acne works on opening up the pores, removing excess oil and preventing the spread of infection. Creams should be applied lightly on the pimples. Do not rub the cream into the skin. Antibiotic creams and gels should be used only under medical supervision. A simple home remedy for acne is applying witch hazel solution and tea tree oil on the eruptions. Take care to avoid the area around the eyes. Never pick, squeeze or press the lesions. This makes the infection spread.

Acne usually does not continue beyond the adolescent years. While the psychological impact could be significant on the teenager, sensible strategies can stave off acne and let him or her enjoy life without the worry of scars.