Diet, lifestyle modification and treatment can all help in acne control. Learning about these factors can help in making decisions particularly in controlling acne. Here is an overview of such factors to control.
Coffee, decaffeinated and regular, can increase cortisol production. Cortisol can produce the same effect as stress in the body and stress is known to cause acne breakouts. If you want acne control, control the coffee intake. As alternatives to coffee, green tea and white tea may be good choices. Avoiding coffee when stressful situations occur is especially recommended since that is a double-whammy for acne.
A healthy diet is an effective method of acne control and is of the best of health plans as well. Enriching the body with antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, keeping processed food to a minimum and focusing on quality protein instead of lower quality sources comprises a good diet. Many antioxidants are also helpful in the elimination of acne infection.
Smoking can also lead to acne outbreaks. Studies show that active smokers are more prone to acne, compared to non-smokers. Research also shows that daily cigarette consumption affects the severity of the acne.
A woman’s menstrual cycle is also a factor that affects acne. Chemical reactions lead to promotion of acne as changes to hormonal levels take place during the monthly menstrual cycle. Stepping up your facial regimen with a more powerful acne cleanser as the menstrual week approaches can be helpful. Return to normal facial cleansing routine after the period.
For some women, the use of oral contraceptives helps acne control. On the other hand, some may have their acne aggravated as hormones are introduced in the body. Several chemical reactions are taking place, which could lead to either beneficial or detrimental effects.
Linens like wash cloths, towels, pillow cases and head gears such hats, headbands, etc. can collect bacteria and can contact to the skin each time the item is used. Back acne, as well as body acne can also develop through this method. Change washcloths, towels and pillowcases every two to three days while achieving acne control. Make certain that headgear being used is clean or you can also avoid the use of these unnecessary gears, if possible.
The acne control medication called Benzoyl peroxide is the most common treatment for acne. It is said that like the sun, the medication promotes generation of free radicals in the skin. Erythema or redness of the skin, and premature skin aging may result from excessive use of Benzoyl peroxide. Thus, caution must be taken when using this acne product. Additionally, Use of benzoyl peroxide for adult acne can often lead to a more serious skin condition called acne rosacea. For more severe cases of acne, or to remove acne scars, acne laser treatment is available.
Stress highly affects acne. The body that is under chronic stress can produce excess hormonal steroids, like hydrocortisone. These specific hormones can have disruptive effects like acne outbreaks. While it may be easy to just say, “Avoid stress,” accomplishing that task can be difficult. Therefore, what one must do is to acknowledge stress levels and the events that have the greatest tendency to be stressful. Every time these events occur, cleanse face very thoroughly, for more than three times daily and use an effective acne cream or lotion for additional control. As stressful events come to end, resume regular facial regimen.
Acne is a skin condition common to many people of all ages. There are a lot of factors that affect the skin with acne. The key to being acne free is to first find what is causing the acne and then working to remove the root causes.