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Let’s face it

Adolescence is a fragile period in an individual’s life. Unfortunately, that‘s when acne attacks. And since this is a time when youngsters have not yet established their identities, and are most conscious of their looks, acne can be traum atic for them.

Get acne treated. Though a natural phenomenon in adolescence, acne is not just obnoxious pimples; it is something that can hurt the skin and the spirit.

Surveys show that adolescents affected by acne have reduced self esteem. Many fall victim to depression and retreat into their shells. They may drop out of school and social activities, and even avoid facing people, because they feel acne has disfigured them. Thus, acne can stunt a child’s professional and social growth.

Acne affects more than 85 per cent of teenagers to a varying degree, but unfortunately, some teenagers get severely affected. For most people, the intensity of acne reduces once they cross adolescence.

Acne is partly hereditary. Parents, if you have had acne, gear up to prevent or tackle it in your kids. “It’s important to keep the body cool, as acne is triggered by body heat,” advises Dr. V. R. Seshadri, ayurvedic healer and superintendent, IMPCOPS Hospital.

Gently wash the face several times everyday with warm water or a non-alkaline face wash. “Dab the face dry, rather than wiping it dry. Do not use moisturisers, as you need to keep the skin dry to cure acne,” says paediatrician Dr. Betty Chacko. “The sap of the aloe vera plant when applied on the skin surface can be an external coolant, adds Dr. Seshadri. It also rejuvenates the skin. Luckily, aloe vera is a plant that grows without much attention. You can grow it in your home, and harvest the sap by snipping off the succulent leaf tip and slitting it open to remove the sap. Turmeric and neem packs help, provided they are not overdone.

In the case of girls, acne increases during menstruation as a result of a spurt in hormones. Hence, they need to be on guard at this time. It’s also advisable never to rub or scratch a pimple even if it itches. This can aggravate the inflammation. Do not attempt to squeeze a pimple to make it smaller. It will leave a hard pit on the skin. Stress may also aggravate acne. So keep cool — inside and outside.

When does one seek medical help? “If you notice new pimples emerging before the older pimples subside, it calls for medical treatment”, says Dr. M. Manoharan, consultant dermatologist.

Acne — Acne vulgaris in medical terms — is a deep rooted skin condition, cosmetic effects notwithstanding. It occurs when there is excess secretion and accumulation of oil on the skin. This clogs the pores and causes pimples. Bacteria in the area such as Propionibacterium acnes may also cause inflammation. So, it makes sense to head to a dermatologist and get the condition treated with appropriate medication, instead of resorting to beauty treatments which claim to peel off the skin and reveal ‘a new and clear you’. The possible side effects and associated risks discourage laser treatment, experts feel. Home remedies and beauty treatments help only when acne is mild. They could perhaps complement what the doctor has prescribed.

Take heart, acne can be controlled. Sometimes, pimples start breaking out again, after a period of recovery. What this means is that you need to take further treatment.

SKIN CARE TIPS