Unless you were born under the rare fortunate-skin star, acne is a condition that most of us must face at one time or another. This elusive menace has corrupted many first dates, destroyed countless yearbook photos and caused unnecessary dismay for the young and old alike. How divergent that such a tiny flaw can create such enormous consequences. Try as we might, no amount of star wishing or God-Mother evoking will clear up this problem for us.

Diagnosing your Acne

Though seemingly superficial, acne is a biological problem with a simple scientific solution. The difficulty lies in the fact that there are multiple causes of different types of acne and each one has a specific treatment. Discovering which type of acne is troubling you can be complicated as well. Self diagnosis is not recommended. Unfortunately, in some cases, the best remedy for one type of acne can actually worsen another type. Over-doing the wrong soaps or solutions can irritate skin and cause more problems on top of what you are already dealing with. The best route is to make an appointment with a reputable dermatologist who can tell you what exactly is causing your acne and give you the proper tools to redeem yourself.

Hormones Role in Causing Acne

One of the most frustrating causes of acne is also the most difficult to control. Dramatic changes in hormones can cause chemical imbalances that, among other unpleasantries, break out our skin. The onset of puberty, monthly menstruation, pregnancy and even menopause can result in severe hormonal shifts for victims at every age and spectrum. Certain medications to balance out these shifts can prove to be beneficial in dealing with hormonal side effects, including acne. Specific doses of these hormones i.e. estrogen and progesterone can only be prescribed by a medical physician. A balanced and healthy diet with plenty of vitamin E, can also do wonders to heal chemical imbalances in the body.

Your Genetics & Acne

Mom and dad are to thank for so many of the wonderful gifts you have. That puppy you promised you would take care of, that trip to Europe, and your favorite mp3 player are all examples of things you gladly accept from your parents. Unfortunately, we can’t control every thing we are given from mom and dad and genes are one of them. If mom or dad had problems with acne as a teenager, or any stage of their life, chances are, you will too. The good news is that science and medicine have come a long way since your parents were battling facial flaws; so most likely, there now exists a cure for you that they didn’t have access to.

Prescription medications like Accutane, Cleocin-T and Retin-A can all work wonders for genetically challenged skin. You must be especially careful when taking these medications, work with your doctor and take the recommended doses. Many prescription drugs can have negative side effects that you will want to know about and take measures to prevent; but, Accutane can be especially harmful to pregnant women and Retin-A requires dedicated use of sunscreen.

Your Environment

One cause of acne we do have some control over is our environment. Stress, diet, pollution and hygiene are all elements that can have a severe effects on our skin but also, are, in most cases, manageable. Making sure to eat a varied diet, taking measures to relieve stress like exercise or even listening to music, and a consistent skin-care regime are all successful methods of managing environmental acne. Washing daily with a mild soap, and using over-the-counter products such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid in moderation, are sure to do the trick.