A "whitehead" results when the hair follicle is plugged with oil and skin cells. If this plug reaches the surface of the skin and the air touches it, it turns black and is called a "blackhead." A blackhead isn't caused by dirt.

If the wall of a plugged follicle breaks, the area swells and turns into a red bump. If the follicle wall breaks near the skin surface, the bump usually becomes a pimple. If the wall breaks deep in the skin, acne nodules or cysts can form. This is called "cystic acne."

Things that often make acne worse
• Oil-based makeup, suntan oil, hair gels and sprays
• In girls: menstruation
• Squeezing or picking at blemishes
• Hard scrubbing of the skin

Acne can be treated in different ways. Talk with your doctor about the options.

Some over-the-counter medications can be used to treat acne. Each works a little differently. These medications are available in many forms, such as gels, lotions, creams, soaps or pads. In some people, over-the-counter acne medications may cause side effects such as skin irritation, burning or redness. Tell your doctor if you have side effects that are severe or that don't go away over time.

Keep in mind that it can take between 4 and 8 weeks before you notice an improvement in your skin. If an over-the-counter acne product doesn't seem to help after 2 months, get advice from your doctor.

Your doctor may recommend antibiotics, which can be very effective for treating acne. They can be taken by mouth, or used on the skin in a lotion, cream or gel.

Acne, especially cystic acne, can cause scars in some people. You can help reduce scarring by not squeezing or picking at blemishes. Also, avoid scrubbing your skin. If you do get scars, treatments are available.


Doctor On Duty
The Apollo Clinic Bangalore Koramangala
www.koraclinic.com