Caring for your skin is crucial to every woman’s beauty routine, especially in today’s environmental challenges like dirt and pollution. However, inconsistent or neglectful skincare practices can lead to various skin issues, including early signs of aging and acne. Medical surveys indicate that over 75% of women experience skin problems like cystic acne, blackheads, and whiteheads. To delve deeper into issues related to acne and skin problems, including their causes and remedies, continue reading below.
Acne Skin Problem: An Overview
Acne is a typical problem among women and most often develops as soon as puberty starts. Considered a long-term skin disease that can affect any age group, acne occurs when the hair follicles get stuck in the oily dead cells of the skin. It is often observed that people with oily skin types get affected by this problem easily. From pimples and skin scars to severe blackheads, different issues can lead to depression, low confidence, stress, and anxiety. In addition, dermatologists say that areas such as the face, neck, upper arms, back, etc., are more affected due to more oil glands in the upper part of our body. (1)
Causes of Acne Problem
Acne has been associated with some common yet serious causes that must be controlled beforehand. Though acne is not dangerous, it can badly affect an individual’s psychology. Here, we have noted down some of the prominent causes of acne to help you better: (2)
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1. Hormonal imbalance
One of the prime causes of acne is a hormonal disturbance in the human body. If an individual has a higher androgen level, they will be more prone to this skin disease. With more androgen in the body, the oil glands tend to expand, thus breaking the cellular walls of the skin and pore-clogging. This in turn gives birth to acne-producing bacteria on the skin. (3)
2. Genetic problem
Most of the time, an individual inherits their skin pattern and qualities from parents or family members. Thus, skin experts have concluded that almost 80% of cases of acne are genetic.
3. Side effects of some medicines
Thirdly, if a person is taking any medication that comprises high-dose androgen and lithium components, the chances of acne are always higher.
4. Menstruation problem
Having problems with menstruation is yet another cause of acne in women. Doctors believe that irregular periods, improper blood discharge, and other difficulties increase the chance of this skin problem.
5. Improper usage of cosmetics and makeup products
Most cosmetic products contain chemical ingredients, resulting in multiple skin issues. To reduce the possibility of acne, dermatologists recommend high-quality makeup products.
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6. Mental stress, anxiety, and incorrect lifestyle
Finally, an undisciplined lifestyle comprising mental stress, anxiety, and an inappropriate diet causes acne and other skin-related problems.
Benzoyl Peroxide Vs. Salicylic Acid
Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic Acid are excellent acne fighters. Most creams and lotions in the market contain Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid. Here, we have discussed the two most active ingredients to help you decide better:
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid, also known as Beta hydroxy Acid or BHA, is developed by treating the powdered bark of willow trees with oxidants. It can penetrate deep into the skin pores and dissolve dead skin build-up. It peels away the top layer of the skin and does not let the pores get clogged. (4)
Salicylic Acid also has excellent anti-inflammatory properties and is more suited for sensitive skin. It works well for people whose skin is prone to blackheads. Salicylic Acid helps in the exfoliation of the skin, and it also reduces inflammation. It is highly effective in fighting acne and, at the same time, soothes the skin.
Skin Types Suitable for Usage of Salicylic Acid
As per skin experts, Salicylic Acid is best suited for three skin types on the Fitzpatrick Scale comprising of the following:
- Skin Type IV (Mostly considered as the Mediterranean or Hispanic skin, this skin complexion is considered between beige to brown),
- Skin Type V ( Dark brown skin that quickly gets tanned)
- Skin Type VI (Black skin color that tans very fast).
Pros of Salicylic Acid
- It helps exfoliate and remove the top layer of dead skin cells.
- With regular use, this ingredient helps reduce the skin pore size.
- It has natural soothing qualities, thus providing relief from inflammation.
Cons of Salicylic Acid
Overusage of this component can result in various side effects.
- It works slowly, thereby taking more time to show results.
- It does not significantly affect the acne bacteria present in the pores.
- It does not stop the excess sebum production, which causes acne.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is another active ingredient that kills bacteria that produce acne. In addition, it helps peel off dead skin cells and exfoliate the skin. Generally found in most lotions, gels, and creams, Benzoyl Peroxide controls the sebum, which is responsible for causing acne bumps in the body. (5)
Pros of Benzoyl Peroxide
- It works much quicker in comparison to Salicylic Acid
- Unlike Salicylic Acid, it helps kill acne bacteria.
Cons of Benzoyl Peroxide
- Benzoyl Peroxide can cause skin redness, dryness, and swelling if misused.
- Using other acne prescriptions is not advised while your skin is treated with benzoyl peroxide.
- In the case of sensitive skin, Benzoyl Peroxide can result in hyperpigmentation and sensation.
Home Remedies to Consider
To get rid of acne naturally, try out the following simple yet effective solutions :
- Banking on a proper diet is essential. Enrich your meals with green vegetables and fruits that help repair and revive your skin.
- Other solutions, such as tea tree oil and green tea, work wonders as natural acne fighters.
- Moisturizing your skin daily, especially with aloe vera gel, helps reduce acne problems.
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Summary
Ensuring skin care is vital in today’s world, combating challenges like pollution. Inconsistent routines can lead to skin issues, with over 75% of women facing problems like cystic acne. Puberty often introduces acne, caused by hair follicles trapping oil in dead skin cells. Factors like hormonal imbalance, genetics, medication side effects, menstrual irregularities, cosmetic misuse, and lifestyle contribute to acne. Choosing between acne fighters, Salicylic Acid, and Benzoyl Peroxide depends on skin types and concerns. Salicylic Acid is suitable for sensitive skin, offering exfoliation and reducing inflammation. Benzoyl Peroxide acts faster but may cause skin sensitivity. Natural remedies like a balanced diet, tea tree oil, green tea, and aloe vera gel aid in naturally combating acne.
