Different Types of Acne
Acne can be of several types depending on how they are classified. Depending on the extent and intensity of the problem, acne is categorized as mild, moderate and severe. While the mild variety of acne causes almost no inflammation of the skin and occurs only temporarily without leaving behind marks, the moderate kind, popularly known as acne vulgaris and mostly affecting teenagers, is a recurrent problem that can cause some inflammation and leave behind dark spots and scars unless treated carefully. Mild acne is caused by lack of personal hygiene whereas acne vulgaris is the result of the surge in the level of hormones in the adolescent body post-puberty. Severe or chronic acne can occur even later in life and causes more extensive and prominent scarring, as the pimples in this case are large, painful and more likely to be infected. Acne can also be categorized depending on whether papules or pustules appear on the skin. When the swelling and pus formation occur beneath the thin outer layer of the skin, the acne is called acne papules, whereas if small pus-filled eruptions appear on the surface of the skin, they are called acne pustules. In extreme cases, acne can also lead to the formation of abscesses beneath the skin, and are called acne nodules and acne cysts.
Preventing Acne
There are a few basic rules that you must follow to prevent acne of all types. Ensure that your skin is always oil and dirt free, as it is because of the accumulation of excess sebum, dirt particles and dead skin cells in the pores on the skin that acne appears. A mild face cleanser should be used twice a day, and you should frequently splash your face with cold water. Diet plays a crucial role in determining the general health of the skin. Thus, you should include plenty of fresh fruits and raw vegetables in your diet in order to supply essential nutrients to the skin cells through the bloodstream. Raw fruits and vegetables also detoxify the system and thereby minimize the risk of getting acne. Drinking at least 10 glasses of water every day is also recommended.
Besides, a few simple home remedies can help prevent and treat acne. Make a natural face scrub by grinding dried orange peel to a fine powder and mixing it with half a cup of yogurt. This paste should be allowed to dry on the face for 10-15 minutes before being washed off with water. A pinch of turmeric mixed with mint juice is also effective in preventing acne.