Staying Healthy - ACNE, BLACKHEADS, AND PIMPLES, OH MY!

Healthcare Tips from Student Health and Wellness Center 

Acne is a skin condition which has plugged pores (blackheads and whiteheads, inflamed pimples (pustules), and deeper lumps (nodules).  Acne occurs on the face, neck, back, shoulders, and upper arms.   Although most teenagers get some form of acne, adults can develop acne too.   Acne can be disfiguring and upsetting and untreated can leave permanent scars!

Acne is not caused by dirt!   Testosterone, a hormone which is present in both males and females, increases during adolescence.   It stimulates the sebaceous glands of the skin to enlarge, produce oil, and plug the pores.  When acne is severe and forms deep “pus-filled” lumps, it is called cystic acne.  This may more common in males.

Skin Care Tips:

• Acne has nothing to do with washing your face.   However, it is best to wash your face with a mild cleanser and warm water daily.  Washing too often or too vigorously may actually make your acne worse. 
• Wear as little cosmetics as possible.  Oil-free, water-based moisturizers and make-up should be used.  Choose products that are “non-comedogenic” (should not cause whiteheads or blackheads) or “non-acnegenic” (should not cause acne).  Remove your cosmetics every night with mild soap or gentle cleanser and water.
• Hydrate your skin with a “non-acnegenic” moisturizer.
• Shield your face when applying sprays and gels on your hair.
• Wash hands frequently and try not to touch skin where acne has flared up.  Do not pick your pimples!
• Increase your water intake to three- 8oz glasses a day to flush out the toxins in your body and hydrate your skin.
• Acne is not caused by food.  However, if certain foods seem to make your acne worse, try to avoid them.
• If your acne is getting worse or unable to see improvement, follow up with a health care provider, medication may be necessary.

So in short the step process is:

1)      Cleanse your face gently with a mild cleanser daily.

2)      Hydrate your skin with a moisturizer.

3)      Drink lots of water.

4)      Wear little make-up and see a health care provider if problems persist to prevent scaring.

Your health care provider will evaluate you and suggest the appropriate treatment regimes considering your age, sex, and type of acne you have.  These treatments may include a topical cream, gel, or lotion, oral antibiotics, or hormone control.   Remember it is not too late to start taking care of your skin and treating or preventing acne!

Student Health Services offers individual skin evaluations and custom treatment programs, call and make an appointment at the Student Health Center today!

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The Campus Connection, February 2, 2009