Acne in women: Causes, treatment, and home remedies
Primarily affecting teenagers, undergoing natural hormonal changes, acne is one of the most common skin conditions. Acne breakouts might occur in adult women as well. However, they don't make for pleasant guests, at all. Causing itchiness and discomfort, acne is embarrassing and frustrating, and that's why most women want to get rid of them, as soon as they show up. Here's all about it.
What is acne?
Acne occurs when your skin's oil glands produce excessive sebum or oil, thereby leading to formation of plugged pores. Although more common in teenagers, acne might also affect adults. The most common sites for acne are the face, neck, shoulders, chest, and back.
What causes acne?
Although hormones are the major reason behind acne, there are other factors that might trigger the condition. These are: Genetics: Family history is a common risk factor for acne. Make-up: Chemicals in your make-up kit might also be doing the harm. If so, get rid of them, and find natural replacements. Medication: Your acne might also be a side-effect of some of your medications.
What is the cure?
The most commonly prescribed acne treatment includes over-the-counter lotions and creams. These commonly contain benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, sulfur or retinoic acid, that aid in reducing oil made by glands, and in breaking down pimples. In case of hormonal acne, doctors often recommend oral contraceptive pills. Antibiotics and topical treatments are also given, for moderate to severe acne condition.
Home remedies to deal with acne
Since medical treatment can be heavy on pocket and may bring undesirable side effects, you might want to consider certain at-home remedies to treat acne, if your condition isn't severe. Home remedies for acne are cheap, easily available, and come with zero side-effects. Some of the best home treatments include green tea face-pack, honey, mint face-pack, aloe vera gel, and lemon juice, among others.
Be patient, acne treatment takes time
Do mind that these treatment methods can take a long time for bringing results, sometimes up to as many as eight weeks. So, don't expect quick magic, there's no such thing in medicine. However, if you don't see any improvement whatsoever, do see your doctor.
