Acne Control
Acne Vulgaris which is commonly termed as acne, pimples, spots or blemishes is a common skin disease affecting the areas of skin with the densest population of sebaceous follicles. While the most common areas are indentified to be the face and upper neck, areas around the chest, back and shoulder are also often affected. This skin disease which is commonly found during adolescence, affects more than 96% of teenagers. The decease causes both physical and mental adverse consequences. The most apparent is the physical scars while the psychological effect is in terms of reduced self esteem. Therefore as a result many aggressive treatments have been introduced overtime as control mechanisms to reduce its adverse impacts. An individual facing the disease may exercise control mechanisms at home or seek professional assistance. Some home remedies for control include application of Aloe Vera, garlic, Neem leaves, lavender oil, orange peel, oats and many other ingredients which can be found at home over the affected areas. Other remedies focus on aspects such as food consumption rich in carbohydrate and juices made out of wheatgrass. However if the condition is severe it is recommended to seek professional assistance. Qualified dermatologists employ control methods in two main forms. The first being over the counter medications while the second being prescription medications. Over the counter medications include control applications which contain chemicals such as Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid and Sulfur. Prescribed

medications include Oral Antibiotics, Retinoids, Topical Antibiotics, Accutane and Oral Contraceptives. In certain instances the mere use of the two above mentioned control methods may not suffice. In such situations control procedures are being used along with a combination of medications. One such common control procedure includes Comedone Extraction which aims at cleaning pores by extracting blackheads and whiteheads. The procedure of Interlesional Corticosteroid Injection is also utilized in severe conditions. This control procedure takes place by injecting a very diluted corticosteroid into the to reduce its inflammation. Another procedure is the method of using chemical peels. This is used at mild conditions to loosen blackheads. Phototherapy or Laser and light therapy is the latest addition to the control procedures. Many laser and light treatments are available to treat to suit various conditions. Such phototherapy control procedures carry the advantage of not having to remember physical applications or medications employed in much older forms of control. However it is also being identified that this type of control is costly and its long term effectiveness is yet to be proven. An individual who already suffers from physical scars can use the lazer technology to completely get rid of scars or diminish its appearance. However it is highly recommended to consult an experienced dermatologist if employing laser or light related control treatments.