Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is the most common skin disorder in the United States. While it's exact cause is unknown, clogged pores, excess sebum (an oily secretion that comes from the sebaceous glands), bacteria, and inflammation all appear to play significant roles in the development of acne. Mild to moderate acne may result in blackheads and whiteheads, whereas severe acne can develop into painful nodular and cystic acne.
Healing acne and acne scars can be an uphill battle, but there are certain things you can do to help improve your skin and facilitate the healing process.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
- Sunscreen, SPF 30 minimum (optional)
- Topical cream, gel or moisturizer (optional)
- Tretinoin ointment (optional)
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-
1
Wear sunscreen before going outdoors. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wearing sunscreen containing an SPF of at least 30 year-round. Unprotected or excessive sun exposure can damage your skin and delay the healing process.
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2
Use a topical cream, gel or moisturizer containing lipoic acid and carnosine. According to a 1981 study, lipoic acid produces enzymes that break down scar tissue. Gels containing lipoic acid can reduce the appearance of acne scars and facilitate skin repair. Lipoic acid is also available in oral forms. Carnosine is an amino acid dipeptide that purportedly encourages skin repair.
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3
Don't pick at your acne scabs. Scabs are part of the skin's healing process; underneath the scab, new skin cells are forming which will help to repair the damaged skin. By picking at or removing a scab, you not only interrupt the healing process, but you can also cause more damage to your skin. In some cases, this damage can result in permanent scarring.
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4
Ask your doctor or dermatologist about tretinoin. Tretinoin is a topical medication used to treat acne. It helps to repair the skin by increasing cell turnover. It is the acid form of vitamin A. While this medication can result in skin irritation or flaking, tretinoin can be very effective in reducing the appearance of acne. It can take several weeks to see significant results.
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