Acne Treatment Continued
Papules and pustules are acne lesions that contain pus including oils, white blood cells, bacteria and, sometimes, hair follicles. They can be almost invisible (though leaving the skin with a “sandpaper” feel to it) or very apparent.
Nodules are inflamed areas of acne lesions that go deeper into the skin and can cause scarring as a result.
Cysts are sac-like lesions that can go deep into skin tissue layers and are often accompanied by inflammation, discomfort and permanent scarring of the skin surface.
Treatments
The first line of defense is keeping the areas prone to acne as clean as possible. A good cleansing agent and lukewarm water are the best. Strong soaps and hot water may tend to break down the natural oils that skin needs to stay healthy and supple. Mild acne can often be treated with over-the-counter lotions, pads, and creams that dry out oily skin and help it shed dead skin layers.
More severe forms of acne can be treated by doctors using stronger solutions of lotions and ointments as well as antibiotics, hormone treatments (mainly for women) and oral medicines.
Resisting the urge to pick at or squeeze acne bumps is also crucial as this action will sometimes result in scarring. Severe acne scarring can sometimes be lessened through the use of lasers and other cosmetic treatments.
By Michael Willis
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