Clear Skin Is Every Teens’ Dream
We all want clear skin, especially those of us affected by acne. It occurs most often in our teenage years when we are already self conscious and insecure. Taunting and teasing by those who don’t have acne makes everything worse. I knew a young man who actually considered putting urine on his face. Don’t laugh.
It’s a legitimate therapy in some parts of the world. I don’t know if I would ever get over the gag factor, but I think many people would try almost anything to get a clear skin complexion.
Diet is important. The myths that chocolate, cola, and greasy foods have largely been debunked, but new studies are telling us that poor nutrition may be a contributing factor. The American diet of processed, high fat, high sugar foods may be a cause for many health problems and skin problems are no exception.
Will an occasional piece of pizza or candy bar cause acne, probably not, but you could make better choices. Doctors recommend plenty of water, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meat. If that sounds familiar it’s because we hear it constantly in relation to many health issues.
Get Rid Of Acne, Get Clear Skin
All acne starts with clogged pores. Our skin normally sheds dead skin cells, but when leftover cells mix with excess sebum and clog the pores, pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads result. Proper cleansing is important to help clear up acne.
Use a gentle cleanser morning and evening followed with a toner or pad saturated with salicylic acid. In addition, a benzoyl peroxide cream or gel may be applied to inhibit bacterial growth.Mild to moderate acne should improve within two weeks. If it does not respond, you should consult a dermatologist.
A dermatologist can help with severe acne or cystic acne. Severe acne may require prescription medications and oral antibiotics to clear up. Cystic acne is difficult to treat and most often causes scarring. The cysts are painful and have no opening, so topical treatments alone may not be effective. The cysts may need to be injected with steroids and sometimes Accutane are prescribed to slow or stop oil production.
Clear Skin: Some Side Effects of Prescribed Medication
Accutane can have some side effects and is not usually prescribed unless other acne treatments have not been effective. Side effects can include dry skin, headaches, chapped lips and high triglyceride levels which contribute to heart disease.
It is a lot to think about but the results can be impressive in giving you the clear skin you want. One 14-15 cycle can clear up acne for months or sometimes for good. There is a Smoothbeam laser that also slows or stops oil production. It is still experimental, but initial results have been good.
Skin usually clears within a week and can stay clear for about six months. The cost for 4-6 treatments can range from $1200-$2400 and is not covered by insurance. For some people the price is worth it to finally have clear skin.
