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Friday, September 24, 2010

Acne Comes in Three Varieties

Anyone researching natural acne cures needs to understand one important factor:  Acne comes in three general varieties and the best remedy will depend upon which type of acne you are trying to treat.

I have used the term "general varieties somewhat inaccurately. Actually, medical professionals identify quite a number of different types of acne, many of which are quite rare. However, they tend to divide the other, non-rare types into three categories discussed below, which range from mild to serious.

Also, please note that acne is not the same as eczema or rosacea. Rosacea is sometimes called "acne rosacea" and it does indeed tend to resemble acne in many cases. However, it is a different condition entirely with a different set of causes.

Comedonal acne is the mildest form of acne. It is considered a non-inflammatory acne. It consists of blackheads or
"comodomes".   Commercial products used to treat comedonal acne usually contains salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid.  Products containing salicylic acid are likely to cause dry skin and other types of skin irritations.  Products containing Retinoids may be used instead.

Acne vulgaris is the second variety of acne. It is a more severe form than comedonal and consists of a combination of blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps and pimples containing pus.  Approximately 90% of acne sufferers have this type of acne.  Depending on the number of spots and the degree of inflammation, acne vulgaris can range from milk to severe.

Acne vulgaris is usually treated with benzyl peroxide,  retinoids, anti inflammatory medications, hormonal treatments and antibiotics.  Various medical procedures may be used as well, including Dermabrasion and phototherapy (light).

Cystic acne is the third type and the more serious.  Symptoms include comedones, pauples pustules and cysts.  Cystic acne is particularly painful, due to the inflammation and infection. If untreated, permanent scarring can result.  It affects deeper skin tissue than do the other forms of acne.  Treatment may include any of the methods described above. Laser treatments may be used to remove the scarring.

Before attempting any of the commercial treatments. many individuals look for natural acne cures, including acne herbs, vitamins for acne and acne homeopathic remedies.

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