Article best acne treatment

Some are simply unpleasant tagalongs
like dandruff; some may actually be mistaken for acne
but require a different course of treatment. Of course
only your dermatologist can make a conclusive diagnosis. But learning a little about these conditions may help you formulate questions for your doctor.

Acne cosmetica. As its name suggests
this mild and relatively common form of acne is caused by cosmetics. Since it's triggered by topical products
it can strike anyone — even people who are not physiologically prone to acne. It typically consists of small
itchy or rashy pink bumps on the cheeks
chin and forehead
developing gradually over the course of a few weeks or months. It may persist indefinitely
but usually does not cause scarring. How can you avoid it? When shopping for make-up and skin products
look for products that are "non-comedogenic." These products are less likely to cause irritation or clogging of the pores.

Dandruff (or Seborrheic Dermatitis). For reasons we don't know
dandruff often accompanies acne
especially in adolescents. The causes are similar. For dandruff sufferers
the natural process of scalp-cell renewal is accelerated when fighting off P. ovale
a normal fungus found on every human head. This causes dead cells to slough more quickly
creating the symptoms we know as dandruff — flaking
scaling and itching of the scalp. In some cases
dandruff involves tiny pimples on the scalp. Climate
heredity
diet
hormones and stress can also impact dandruff. Most cases can be managed with non-prescription shampoos containing zinc
coal tar or salicylic acid. Stronger shampoos can be prescribed by your doctor if the problem continues. Dandruff isn't caused by overwashing of the hair
so it's okay to shampoo every day. In contrast
scratching or picking the scalp can worsen the condition.

Dermatitis (or Eczema) is characterized by a rapidly spreading red rash which may be itchy
blistered and swollen. Atopic dermatitis is related to asthma and hay fever-type allergies
and is often seen in early childhood. Contact dermatitis is usually caused by contact with irritants (detergents or harsh chemicals) or allergens (substance to which the patient is allergic
like rubber
preservatives or a particular fragrance). Individuals with chronic dermatitis will have a longstanding history of irritation in the affected area or areas. The eyelids
neck and hands are most commonly affected in adults. The skin in these areas may be darker than surrounding skin
and thickened from persistent scratching. This form is thought to be hereditary
but may be influenced by environmental factors as well. Dermatitis may come and go throughout a person's life.

Enlarged pores. Before the onset of puberty
most people have relatively small pores and smooth skin. Pores tend to become larger in adolescence as sebum production increases. Then
as we continue to age
sun damage decreases the skin's elasticity
making pores appear larger. As an adult
the size of your pores is determined by genetics; some people retain the small pores of their youth
while others develop larger pores. Individuals with larger pores may complain of small grayish blackheads on the nose and cheeks. Contrary to popular belief
these "blackheads" are nothing more than normal sebum doing its job: lining the pore. Since the sebum is meant to be there
squeezing is an exercise in futility — the oil comes back the next day
and frequent handling over time may actually damage the pore
causing it to enlarge permanently.

Epidermal Cysts. Unlike cystic acne
which occurs within the confines of an infected follicle
an epidermal cyst is a sac-like growth in the deeper layers of the skin. The cyst sac is filled with a soft
whitish material that may remain indefinitely. Small cysts (less than 5mm in diameter) don't usually need treatment; they can be a nuisance
but are generally harmless. Larger cysts have a higher probability of becoming infected; this is very painful and can lead to scarring. Epidermal cysts are often permanent; even if the material is extracted
the sac remains and the cyst may return. In these cases the entire cyst sac must be excised to prevent recurrence. While cysts are typically benign
it's wise to consult a physician about suspicious lumps and bumps.

Favre-Racouchet Syndrome. Because this condition is caused by severe
progressive sun damage over the course of many years
Favre-Racouchet Syndrome is most prevalent among men and women over 50. Patients are afflicted by large coalescent comedones (blackheads) around the eyes and on the upper cheeks. Unlike acne blackheads
Favre comedones do not regress if left untreated; they must be surgically extracted or treated with topical retinoids.

Keratosis Pilaris. Common among teenagers
keratosis pilaris is characterized by patches of tiny
red
kernel-hard bumps on the backs of the arms
shoulders
buttocks and the front of the thighs. Occasionally it occurs on the cheeks as well
with numerous bumps in the affected areas. Unlike acne
keratosis pilaris is usually painless and feels spiny to the touch. It tends to be more severe during the winter months when humidity is lower
and is more prevalent in arid climates.

Milia. These tiny
white bumps are found mostly in the area around the eyes. Cystic in nature
they are hard to the touch and deep in the skin. Milia may last for weeks or even months; if they are particularly troublesome to you
consult your dermatologist for professional
safe removal.

Peri-Oral Dermatitis. Primarily affecting women in their 20s and 30s
this condition is characterized by patches of itchy or tender red spots around the mouth. The skin bordering the lips may appear pale and dry
while the chin
upper lips and cheeks become red
dry and flaky. It can also affect the skin around the nose.

Pseudofolliculitis barbae. Pseudofolliculitis barbae is just a fancy name for the acne-like breakouts commonly called "shaving bumps." As hairs begin to grow back after shaving
waxing or plucking
they get trapped inside the follicle and cause irritation and swelling. Not everyone gets shaving bumps; people with curly hair are more susceptible
but anyone can take steps to prevent them. If you can
use an electric razor. If you prefer blade shaving
use a new
single-edge blade every time you shave. Prep the area with warm water and use a rich shaving cream. Always shave with the grain
not against it. Then
after you're done
apply a mild toner or antibacterial gel. Get more information on shaving.

Rosacea. 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.