Severe acne is a problem that plagues both teens and adults alike. While everyone deals with some form of acne during their lifetime, severe acne can have a major impact on one’s social life and mental well-being. Acne can become such a serious problem that it can lead to severe depression and even suicide.
Below, we’ll examine the causes of severe acne, as well as the various types of treatment options that are available to help you clear up your skin for good.
Causes of Severe Acne
Cases of severe acne can be brought on by a number of causes. Hormonal activity is a very common cause of severe acne. During puberty, severe acne outbreaks will often occur as sex hormones and the size of follicular glands increase. Severe acne outbreaks can also occur during menstrual cycle as a woman endures a dramatic rise in hormonal activity.
While there is no concrete evidence that suggests a poor diet directly causes acne, food choices certainly do have an impact on existing blemishes. Foods that raise individual blood glucose levels can worsen acne in teenagers and adults. Consuming too much milk can also have a negative impact on your skin.
Other factors that can play a role in severe acne outbreaks include genetics, infections, and psychological and stress disorders.
How to Treat Severe Acne
The battle with severe acne has been raging on for generations. Just some of the treatment options for severe acne outbreaks include:
- Antibiotics (Prescription)
- Benzoyl Peroxide (Clearasil, Proactiv, Oxy, ClearZit)
- Salicylic Acid (Neutrogena, Clean & Clear, Stridex)
- Hormones (birth control)
- Topical Retinoids (Retinol, Nivea, Mederma)
- Oral Retinoids (Prescription)
In many cases, some of the aforementioned treatment options are combined to combat acne issues. While there are dozens of different ways to fight severe acne, what is successful for one person’s skin may not be for another’s. Before beginning any type of severe acne treatment program, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist or health care specialist.