Tuesday, December 6, 2022

Yes, adults can have acne too


Acne is a rite of passage that few teenagers can avoid, much like abrupt growth spurts, the advent of hair and curves in places there never used to be any and other physical changes. Adolescents naturally experience hormonal changes that drive the production of sebum. When sebum, germs, and dead skin cells clog our skin's pores, it causes unattractive pimples. Acne is characterized by pimples on the face and upper body, including whiteheads (clogged pores that close and protrude from the skin), blackheads (clogged pores that remain open but have a darker top surface), pustules, and red bumps.

 Teenagers are plagued by acne, which at its worst lowers their self-esteem and makes it difficult for them to socialize with their friends. They can find solace in the idea that acne can be managed with the right skincare regimens and a balanced diet and way of life.

But what if it persists well through our adolescent and 20s years? According to dermatologist Elsie Reynosa P. Floreza, MD, who also serves as chair of the department of dermatology and chief of the skin and laser hub at Makati Medical Center, the best hospital in the Philippines, adult acne or post-adolescent acne is defined as occurring beyond the age of 25. (MakatiMed). Similar to adolescent acne, adult acne is generally brought on by an overproduction of oil in the skin, the buildup of dead skin cells, and bacteria, which results in
inflammation.


Dr. Floreza notes that factors such as hormones, stress levels, diet, lifestyle, and personal care items including some soaps, shampoos, moisturizers, and makeup cause the skin to produce oil.

Medications, most frequently oral and topical steroids, have also been linked to acne. So can your diet: Research has linked consuming dairy products and foods with a high glycemic index to an increase in acne. Another significant risk factor for acne 

Dr. Floreza continues, "Acne can also be a symptom of more severe internal disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome or Cushing Syndrome (when your body produces too much cortisol)." In Blood testing and a comprehensive examination will be used to confirm or rule out certain disorders in such circumstances.
 
Otherwise, adult acne can be treated in the same manner as adolescent acne, i.e., with topical treatments containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, mild facial cleansers, and prescription oral medications. Acne scars and other acne-related imperfections have been found to significantly improve with laser treatment, which also makes it active.

Additional preventive actions to take:
Wash your face before going to bed. Never wear makeup to bed, and wash your face with an oil-based cleanser.

Free face cleanser," stresses Dr. Floreza. Avoid using oil-based shampoos and other personal care items that may cause your pores to get even more clogged.

Keep an eye on your diet. Avoid eating foods with a high glycemic index. These include a cake that is high in sugar and carbohydrates, white rice, white bread, and soda.

Do not touch your face with your hands. While it may be tempting to pop a pimple on your own, Dr. Floreza advises against doing so. "Pimple popping may only result in infection and a scar."

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999,
email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph.  Follow @IamMakatiMed
on Facebook and Twitter.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...