Dealing with Adult Teenage and Baby Acne: What You Need to Know
Adult teenage and baby acne are conditions caused mainly by excessive production of oil which results in skin pores getting clogged by dead skin cells, dirt and hair follicles. The blockage in the pores then provides a place for bacteria, most notably Propionibacterium acnes, to multiply and cause infection.
Both adult teenage and baby acne can be easily remedied, depending on the level of its severity. For babies, acne usually disappears after a few weeks. In some cases though, it could last up to a few months. Some babies suffer from this condition because of the maternal hormones that get past the placenta. After delivery, these hormones cause the baby's skin to produce more oil than normal; creating bumps that are usually reddish in appearance.
The best way to treat a baby's acne is to get him or her cleaned up using mild soap. Never use adult medications to treat baby pimples unless it has been recommended by a specialist. Avoid rubbing the baby's skin vigorously, just pat it dry and always use a clean towel in drying his skin. It is also advisable to clean his sheets, clothes and other materials that his skin will get in contact with. If the zits do not disappear after a few weeks, seek the advice of skin specialists. Most of the time, a mild cream will be prescribed to eradicate the bumps. Remember, don't use any medication without consulting a skin specialist first.
For teenagers, proper hygiene is a good way to start treating pimples. Washing one's face at least twice a day, especially before going to bed, is a simple way of preventing dirt from accumulating in the skin. Touching or popping pimples should also be avoided since the dirt in our hands and the resulting break in the skin will likely make the condition worse. Although acne is quite common among teenagers, it is still better to consult a dermatologist before opting for an over-the-counter cure.
Adult acne, on the other hand, might not be as common as teenage pimples, but it still needs attention and going to a dermatologist is the first logical step. Meanwhile, maintaining a clean skin and avoiding touching one's face are things that adults suffering from zits should always remember. For over-the-counter cures, the most likely that will be prescribed by specialists are topical antibacterials or retinoids. These medications are good enough to treat mild to moderate acne. For severe cases, more advanced treatment methods such as phototherapy and laser therapy might be needed.
Adult teenage and baby acne should not be a cause for panic, but they are also something that should not be ignored. To be on the safe side, consult a dermatologist or a skin specialist before applying anything on your skin. It is better to be safe than sorry, right?
