Acne results from a condition resulting from clogged or plugged hair follicles present under the skin. This clogging could be due to excess oil production, accumulation of dead skin cells, or bacterial infection.
It presents as small to large, red bumps on the skin. There may be pain, occasionally pus-filled .95% become victims of scar formation. Post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation will lead to darkening of skin due to overproduction of melanin.
Factors that influence clogging and acne development include:
Teenagers and young adults are commonly affected. Puberty is the dancing stage for acne, pimples. Excess sebum or oil production, Accumulation of dead skin cells, Bacterial infection of the follicle, Changes in hormonal levels as noted during puberty or pregnancy, Certain medications such as corticosteroids and lithium are the causes. Foods with high sugar content, dairy products etc. may trigger/worsen acne. Stress, Family history, Skin contact with greasy or oily substances, Friction or pressure on the skin may also probable provoking factors.
Diagnosis
Detailed medical history is important. Therefore don’t hide anything from your doctor which you may think as insignificant. It is important to approach doctor, because thorough examination of the pimples can help your doctor diagnose acne. Medical history includes questions about any other medical condition, use of medications, mood disorders, stress level, etc. Take your specific treatment details and old prescriptions while going to doctor.
Complications
If untreated for a prolonged period, the complications may lead to
- Scarring of the skin.
- Emotional distress and inferiority feeling, hesitate to mingle with others.
Prevention
- Wash face twice daily
- Avoid contact with greasy and oily substances
- Protect skin from sun by applying moisturizers and sunscreens
- Avoid friction and pressure on the skin
- Do not touch, prick, or scratch the affected area
- Shower after strenuous activities
- Get adequate rest and sleep
- Avoid foods that trigger/worsen acne
Questions To Ask Your Doctor
- How long should I be on treatment?
Ayurveda treatment needs few weeks to few months depending on severity.
Ayurveda doctor may advice some home remedies or Panchakarma treatment also.
- Are there any side effects to any of the treatment options?
Absolutely no. Side effects are totally nil in case of ayurveda treatment.
- How often should I visit for a follow-up?
As an ayurveda practitioner I suggest to visit me once in a week or once in ten days.
- Can I manage my condition with diet and life-style changes?
Sometimes, yes. But if condition is severe, then requires ayurveda medical treatment.
Nutrition
Foods to eat:
Low glycaemic diet such as fruit, vegetables, pulses, etc. Reduce carbohydrate food, use only unpolished black rice.
Canola oil, flaxseed oil, mustard oil, are recommended, because they contain Omega-3 fatty acids.
Foods to avoid:
High glycaemic load diet, such as chocolates, sugary foods, polished white rice, white sugar, wheat and wheat products. Because wheat contains proinflammatory factor Gluten. Dairy products such as white bread, milk, cheese.
Facts
- Lab tests are not required for diagnosis.
- Family history may suggest likelihood.
- Sometimes severe acne may present with systemic symptoms like fever, swelling of face which indicates severe inflammation, associated with infection.
- May present with swelling and pain, without swelling, hair follicles covered by skin (whiteheads) and not covered by skin (blackheads), small bumps, large round hardened lumps, with fluid/pus accumulation.
home remedies
- Mix equal quantities of lemon juice and rose water, apply it over the face with cotton. Leave for one hour, then wash. Do this for 15-20 days.
- Butter fruit(avocado)is pasted with water, apply and rub it over face for 5 minutes, wash with lukewarm water.
- Drink 1 glass of water mixed with 1 tsp honey and 1 lemon squeezed, in empty stomach.
- Mix 2-3 tsp of tea powder and 10 basil leaves, boil with some water for 10 minutes. Then cool it, apply over affected area. Wash after one hour.
- Make a paste of cinnamon powder and honey; apply it before going to bed. Wash it in the next morning.
- Apply a paste of ripe tomatoes over the face, leave for one hour, then wash it.
- 1 table spoon of aloe vera pulp should be mixed with 2 table spoon of pure honey and ¼ table spoon of ground cinnamon. Apply over the face or as a face mask .Rinse with luke warm water after 10 minutes.
Dr.R.P.Bangaradka. M.S.(Ayu).
Medical director,
Prasadini Ayurnikethana Ayurveda Hospital,
Narimogaru, Putturu. D.K. Karnataka-574202
Website: www.prasadini.com