Consumers looking for the best way to get rid of acne are most likely looking to alleviate the embarrassment from this skin affliction once thought to only affect teens. But acne is not just for teenagers — more consumers suffer from acne in their adult years than teenage years and it’s still embarrassing no matter the age.
Cause of Acne
There are a lot of theories floating around about what causes acne – which is often referred to as ‘zits’. Known as acne vulgaris to skin professionals, most of these theories
are correct; however some are nothing but myths. So what really causes those embarrassing breakouts or random pimples? Though a person’s acne can occur from more than just one cause, the best way to get rid of acne is to know the common causes:
- Clogged pores
- Hormonal changes
- Poor diet (junk food, fried foods)
- Using oil-based skincare products
- Medication
- Genetics
Surprised to not see stress listed? That’s because normal, everyday stress does not cause breakouts and is in fact, one of the many acne-causing myths floating about.
Acne Symptoms
Acne is not a one-size-fits-all situation; therefore nor is the best way to get rid of acne. While some people assume that a pimple is a sign of acne, acne does in fact take on different forms. Some of the common symptoms of acne include blackheads, pimples and whiteheads. These can show up on the face, shoulders, back, chest or even the arms no matter the person’s age or skin type.
Clearing Up Acne with Acne-Clearing Products
Numerous products are available to help clear up acne, however the best way to clear acne for one individual may not be the solution for another. The first step in clearing up acne is keeping the skin fresh and clean.
Most commonly, consumers looking to cleanse their skin will find skin clearing regimens that include a cleanser, toner and moisturizer. These products should be used twice per day.
Spot creams are available for individual’s looking to get rid of a blemish fast, but consumers should note that these creams contain products like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide — both of which will severely dry out and possibly irritate the skin.
Clearing Up Acne with Lifestyle Changes
The best way to get rid of acne does not solely rely on acne clearing products. A person looking for how to clear up acne fast also needs to make some changes in her daily life in order for those skin-clearing products to take effect.
A few of the changes recommended by skincare professionals are:
- Cutting bad habits such as tanning, cigarettes and consuming caffeine
- Avoid touching the face — which only adds more oil to already oily skin
- Do not pop, press or pick at pimples to avoid acne scars
- Decrease oily, greasy or chocolate foods from every day diet
Acne Scars
Acne scars are a common complaint amongst individuals suffering from acne. People with severe cases of acne often find that once they harness the best way to get rid of acne, they are left with a pitted scar-like blemish in its place. Though some acne scars are the result of genetics, others can be prevented.
Common causes for acne scars:
- Picking, popping or scrubbing blemishes
- Infection of large, deep pimples known as cystic lesions
- Using the inappropriate type acne cleanser
Acne scars are not a permanent fixture. While some fade over time others can be treated with medical procedures proven effective at reducing or eliminating the sign of acne scars altogether. Some of these procedures can be used in conjunction as the best way to get rid of acne as well.
Those looking to get rid of acne scars fast have the option of laser resurfacing. This procedure is typically done by a plastic surgeon or dermatologist as an outpatient procedure. Overall, the process takes a few hours and is pain-free.
Most specialists will recommend laser resurfacing on individual’s with severe scaring, especially when it is located on the face.
Individual’s suffering from mild to moderate scaring can reduce acne scars with dermabrasion. This process can be done either by a dermatologist or done from the comfort of your own home using a dermabrasion kit. Though dermabrasion does not eliminate the appearance of scars altogether, it resurfaces and smooths the skin to help reduce their appearance.
A Few Things to Consider
Acne might be an embarrassing affliction, but more often than not it is not a permanent issue. For some, a change in prescription medicines or diet might be the quickest solution to acne.
Since many over-the-counter acne treatments can dry out the skin, those suffering from sensitive skin should consult a dermatologist before trying them. Severe irritation, including rashes, may occur.
The best way to get rid of acne will always depend on the patient’s skin and lifestyle; therefore consult a dermatologist to seek out what is causing your acne and what you can do to prevent it.