It dogs us in our teenage years, popping out to dampen a big night out. Severe acne can be a serious affliction that causes a normally sociable student to become shy and withdrawn. The good news is that all acne can be treated. Extreme cases will require a visit to Student Health, but options for mild or moderate acne can be found with a trip to the pharmacy.
Pimples occur when bacteria breaks down the oil produced by our skin pores, causing an inflammatory response characterised by redness and swelling. Frequent hand washing helps prevent pimples. But not too frequent, or the skin will dry out (this will happen if you use the flat bar of soap that has been in the bathroom since last semester). A wash or soap balanced to the pH of the skin is ideal. The label of the product should say if it is pH balanced.
Benzoyl peroxide is a powerful tool in controlling acne. It is a very good antibacterial, and it is also keratolytic (removes outer skin). But be careful when you snuggle into the bae’s new top — it is a mild bleach!
We’ve all been told not to pop pimples as it destroys the skin, which is a barrier against infection. But no one wants to walk around with a big, white pus-filled beacon on our face. The trick is to not introduce more infection, so wash your hands before tackling the beast, and treat with an antiseptic preparation after. Remember: wipe on, wipe off. Note: pawpaw is not an antiseptic.
Occlusive skin products (that is, the best covering foundation makeup, of course) will aggravate acne. As do some types of food, smoking, some medicines and some medical conditions. But remember, it can be improved, if not totally cured. Usually by your 25th year, it’s packed up and left.