Smooth Solutions

Acne is a common skin disorder that typically peaks during the teenage years but can afflict any one especially between the ages 20 to 40 years. It is caused by over production of sebum, a lipid rich secretion by the sebaceous glands leading to formation of ugly pimples, which are basically enlarged sebaceous glands. Acne usually form on the face, chest and back areas of the body but maximum embarrassment is caused when they occur on a person’s face. There are many methods to treat acne depending on the severity of the case. Not every treatment is successful and methods used can vary from individuals to individuals. People suffering from mild acne can be given topical treatment wherein antibacterial cream and antibiotics can help. Other forms of treatment include hormonal agents either separately or in combination with the antibiotics and the topical cream. Use of oral antibiotics such as tetracyclines (tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline), erythromycin and co-trimoxazole produces positive result, however there is every chance that the patient may suffer severe side effects. The frequent undesirable effects are stomach upsets, vomiting, diarrhoea and vaginal candidiasis because of changes in the mucocutaneous bacterial flora.

The natural approach to treating acne is more benign. Creams derived from Aloe Vera are especially considered good for treating acne. Certain topical treatment involve the use of special types of gels which contain salicylic acid to slough off dead skin cells and help unclog skin pores. Vitamin supplements, traditional medicines, laser treatment and even acupuncture has been variously tried with varying degree of success. Herbal medicine has proved to be successful in some parts of the world. Homeopathy and Ayurvedic medicines have shown great promise. These approaches deal with acne in a holistic manner starting from psychological counseling, special diets, good life style and of course the herbal medicines. Acne soars on healing leave behind ungainly scars that are psychologically disturbing. Non-ablative Nd:YAG laser has proved successful in removing minor scar formation in some cases and is used by many physicians.