The early symptoms of Acne can be small tender bumps on the skin, which are often filled with pus. You can even develop a combination of these breakouts on your skin. Some of the most common and early symptoms of Acne are as follows
- Blackheads – It is yellowish and has small black bumps on the skin. These look black due to the presence of pigmentation produced because of the inner lining of the hair follicle. The dermatologist highly recommends treating these with retinoid instead of squeezing it out because it can leave a permanent scar
- Whiteheads are similar to blackheads in terms of appearance but firmer, and they can't be completely squeezed out. It can be cured with the help of acne treatment, as plucking them up can be painful and infectious.
- Pimple – The dead skin cells and bacteria get trapped inside a pore and cause pimples if these are mild, then they can be treated with acne products that contain a retinoid, azelaic acid, or benzoyl peroxide.
- Acne nodule or cyst – Acne nodules are larger acne bumps that build up under the skin, which can be very painful. Cyst looks like boils and carries the highest risks of causing permanent scars. In some cases, dermatologists prefer to inject it with medication which helps them to clear it more quickly.
The common risk factors for Acne are as follows
- Age – Acne is very common in teenagers; however, it can occur to anyone at any stage of life, and people of all ages can get it.
- Changes in Hormonal balance – Androgen hormones increase in girls and boys during puberty and expand the sebaceous glands while making it more sebum. These hormonal changes can lead to breakouts, particularly in women in their midlife, which allows Acne to stay for longer than usual
- Medical History – If any of your parents or both parent has Acne, there is a higher chance for you to develop it too as genetics plays a very important role in Acne
- Uses of oily and greasy products – If you are using any oily lotions or creams on your skin, then you might develop Acne
- Friction on your skin – If your acne-prone skin is continuously in contact with cell phones, telephone, backpacks, helmets, and tight collars, then it can create friction, and then you might develop Acne
- If you have mild Acne, you can speak to the pharmacy and easily get medical to cure it which is a smart move to stop the outspread of Acne, but dermatologist believes that two pimples can be alike and the dermatologist can guide you and advise you regarding the treatment options for different types of Acne. Here are the three questions which are the best indicators that you need to see a doctor for Acne
- Are the gels, creams, and cleansers you have been using have stopped working?
- Is Acne reducing your confidence, or is it taking a toll on your self-esteem?
- Are the pimples painful and leaving dark spots and scars behind?
The cost of acne treatment can vary depending on several factors. If you decide to get rid of acne on your own, your only cost will be the supplies and time of research. If you go with a professional like a dermatologist, your cost can range from 2000 to 15,000 INR, depending on the type and size of acne.
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It’s crucial to understand that although benefits might appear as early as the first week, it usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to notice any major change. The therapy should be continued for at least another 6 weeks before deciding it isn’t working for you. First, you should see a reduction in the size of the pimples.
Acne is a disfiguring skin disease that may cause embarrassment and self-esteem issues. A laser and heat are used in laser acne treatment to get rid of the zits on your face. Results may be seen as soon as 12 hours following your treatment, however, they are just temporary. Your effects will last as long as your skin type, treatment region, and acne kind.
Acne treatment side effects are dependent on the technique used and the dosage used. The most frequent negative effects of topical acne medications are dryness and irritation of the skin. Fortunately, these signs and symptoms are only going to last for a short time.
Acne severity cannot be classified universally, which means every skincare professional classifies Acne in a different way. Majority of the dermatologist uses grades to indicate the severity of Acne, and it goes like this – mild Acne, moderate Acne, and severe Acne. However, there is a proper test to identify the severity of Acne, and dermatologists do it by doing a simple inspection of Acne visually. The Acne tends to wax and wane on its own, so the grades can also move back accordingly. Let's understand the severity of Acne in details
- Mild Acne
The minor Acne which is less in quantity is known as mild Acne. If there are some bumpiness and blackheads or inflamed pimples on your skin and the blemishes are not widespread, you are under the mildest grade. You can easily treat this type of Acne with general acne treatment products which are available in your country. Make sure to treat this Acne as soon as possible as there are chances that it might convert into a more severe form
- Moderate Acne
This Acne is more visible as compared to mild Acne, you might even have blackheads and bumpy skin, and you can also get regular inflamed papules and pustules. In such cases, if you are scuffling to get this Acne under control with the help of the country's acne treatment products, you need to stop as these products are clearly not working. You are required to consult an authorized physician and get a prescription medication to clear these moderate breakouts.
- Severe Acne
In severe Acne, the blemishes are larger, redder, and more swollen. You need to consult a dermatologist for that as it is quite difficult to control severe Acne, and prescribed medicines are required to do so.
There are different types of Acne that require different types of treatment, and it is very important to know your type so that you can get the suitable treatment according to it. Here is the list of most common acne types-
- Acne Vulgaris
- Comedonal Acne
- Cystic Acne
- Nodular Acne
- Acne Rosacea
- Acne Mechanica
- Acne Cosmetica
To avoid breakouts and get rid of acne, you may practice certain self-care techniques at home. Acne home treatments include the following:
- Using a gentle soap on your skin every day to eliminate excess oil and grime is recommended.
- Keep your hands away from your face.
- Maintaining a regular shampooing routine and keeping your hair out of your eyes and away from your face.
- Using water-based or non-comedogenic make-up (not pore-clogging).
There are certain things that may worsen or create complications of Acne. The condition can get worse if it damages the nearby skin. People who have darker skin tones are likely to face these complications more as compared to the people who have lighter skin tones
- Scars
Thick scars and pitted skin can prone to stay longer than usual even after the Acne has healed
- Skin changes
Once the Acne is gone, the affected area may patch of skin become darker in color, which is called hyperpigmentation, or it can become lighter, which is called hypopigmented then before the occurred condition
