Acne Vulgaris a Common Problem
Acne vulgaris sounds horrible but it is really just known by the name "acne" and is commonplace in many teens and even adults. This acne is a skin condition which occurs when your dead skin cells mingle with the oil produced by the sebaceous glands and the result is clogged pores. Acne vulgaris can present itself in a variety of ways from simple black or whiteheads to red papules or pustules to deep cysts that can be quite painful.
Primary Causes
Clogged pores due to dead skin cells and oil are the primary cause of acne vulgaris as mentioned above but the problem becomes more serious when germs such as bacteria get into the mix. For this reason, you should not attempt to squeeze or pop the pimples aka acne vulgaris as these actions will not only push the infection deeper but you could also spread the germs to other places on your skin.
Contrary to old popular belief, acne vulgaris is not caused by your diet or such foods as fried or greasy fare or even chocolate. What makes the acne worse is using improper skin products that contribute to the production of skin oil as well as touching your skin with your oil transferring fingertips.
Genetics can play a part on whether or not you get acne vulgaris although it will not necessarily dictate your treatment options or success. Stress, hormonal activity, certain medications containing halogens and even the use of steroids can all play a part in developing acne.
Treatment Options
Treatment of acne vulgaris will vary widely, depending on the severity of the case, although milder forms can be treated with over the counter topical medications. Benzoyl peroxide is popular in the treatment of acne because it not only unblocks pores and dissolves the oils and dirt but it also kills the germs that cause acne vulgaris.
There are mild cleansers, soaps and more with benzoyl peroxide or even alpha hydroxyl which work to dissolve those potential clog-makers in the pores. Occasionally antibiotics - both topical and oral - may be prescribed to help kill the bacteria that are causing the acne vulgaris.
Stronger drugs may be necessary for harsher cases of acne, particularly those that are cystic in nature and can be quite painful and ugly. Several of these prescriptions are derived from vitamin A such as Accutane and a line of retinoids but with these, you have to proceed with caution due to the published side effects.
Basically, your acne vulgaris is unique to you and will require a different treatment option than your best friend or even mother who may have it too. Your skin condition and the severity of the case will be the deciding factors.
