By Gunwant S.Dhaliwal, M.D., Astoria General Hospital, NY
Pimples or Acne in medical terms is a chronic disorders of the sweat glands particularly those on the face, chest and back. It occurs primarily in adolescents when the canal from which hair grows gets Plugged with oils and secretions, the area become inflamed and red developing in to cither whitehead or blackhead.
What exactly causes acne is not known. Some researchers think that hormones, heredity, bacteria on the skin or stress may play some role in its development. Do’s:
- Wash off sweat, especially after exercise, paying more attention: 10 face, shoulders and back.
- Use a grease free soap every day.
- A soap, lotion or abrasive Cleanser containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or resorcinol may be tried.
In tough cases, vitamin A can be prescribed for pimples. It has to be used cautiously because of some reported side effects. Antibiotics such as Tetracycline, Minocycline or Erythromycin may be required in males and topical clindamycin in females in severe infected pimples.
Don’ts:
Many people believe that eating certain foods such as chocolate or nuts make pimples worse, but diet has not been proven to have any effect.
- Do not pick at or squeeze the skin. The inflamed follicles may further get irritated and case more plugging or scarring. 2. Avoid measures that increase and collect grease especially on the face. Don’t style hair to touch the face.
- Don’t spend a lot of time in the sun. 4. Don’t use heavy, grease based deodorant soap, makeup or moisturizing cream. Powder and water based lotions work better.
- Don’t wear wool for long pends, especially without a lining layer such as an undershirt. It can make the acne worse. This information provides a general overview on pimples and may not apply in each individual case, Consult your physician to determine whether this information can be applied to your personal situation and to obtain additional information.
Article extracted from this publication >> August 13, 1993
