Health

Treatment Methods For Severe Acne

Published

2 years ago

October 27, 2020

Acne, a nuisance causing skin condition, not only leaves you with blemished skin but also causes an emotional toll. Patients with severe acne experience frequent skin breakouts that affect different parts of the body, such as the face, back, and neck. They are caused by hormonal changes or genetic makeup.

In extreme cases, these breakouts penetrate deeper into the skin and are referred to as cysts or nodules. This form of acne is typically more painful, and even when it clears up, unsightly scars are often left behind. Dealing with severe acne can be overwhelming and is known to have a negative effect on self-esteem. However, there are a few proven ways through which you can manage the breakouts.

Treatment Options

Are you struggling with severe acne? Below are some recommended treatment options:

Dietary Changes

Your diet can have a direct impact on your susceptibility to severe acne. The food you consume affects the functioning of various body organs, including the skin. When the skin fails to function normally, it may produce excess oil, known as sebum, that clogs the pores. In turn, clogged pores are more likely to become infected with bacteria, which leads to acne breakouts. Therefore, to prevent such breakouts, you can make some dietary changes, which include;

• Going on a low-carb diet

• Hydrating

• Ditching dairy products

• Adding lots of green leafy vegetables into your diet

Effective Skincare

It is advisable to adopt a healthy skincare routine to reduce the frequency and severity of acne breakouts. A healthy skincare routine helps maintain its proper functioning giving it a smooth, youthful, and glowing look. If you are not sure of the skincare routine to adopt, here is a summary:

• Wash your face at least twice a day using a mild soap or a gentle cleanser and warm water.

• Shower after any strenuous activity to remove excess sweat and dirt.

• Apply sunscreen before going outdoors under the scorching sun.

• Avoid using harsh skincare products.

• For dry skin, apply a moisturizer before going to bed.

• Avoid touching your face regularly to reduce contamination.

• Seek help from a qualified dermatologist.

• Exfoliate regularly.

Lifestyle Changes

Your lifestyle can also contribute to regular breakouts. How? The acne on your skin may be a sign of an underlying issue. Your physical, mental, and emotional well-being all affect the general functioning of your body. Therefore, your skin’s health calls for holistic treatment. You should start by addressing any issue concerning the functioning of your body. Listed below are some lifestyle changes you can adopt:

• Exercise regularly to increase blood flow throughout your body. This helps in the elimination of oils and other toxic substances that may trigger acne breakouts.

• Get enough sleep to control your cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone related to stress, which is not good for your skin.

• Avoid stress. Though it’s hard to do away with stress completely, it is vital to learn how to manage it. Elevated stress triggers the production of glucocorticoid, which can affect the structure and functioning of the skin.

• Hydrate: Replace alcohol and carbonated drinks with water. Water helps your body flush out toxins that may affect the health of your skin.

Medications

If none of the above treatment options seems to work for you, your doctor may recommend some medications. The medication will typically be either topical creams/lotions or pills.

They include:

• Antibiotics: These work by killing excess bacteria on the skin, reducing skin reddening and inflammation. Antibiotics may be taken orally or used as topical ointments.

• Retinoids: Also called vitamin A derivatives, retinoids work by affecting how your skin grows and sheds.

• Oral contraceptives: These are used on women, and they reduce severe acne outbreaks by counteracting the hormonal effects of periods.

• Other medications used to treat severe acne include dapsone, azelaic acid, and spironolactone.

Conclusion

Severe acne can affect you mentally, physically, and emotionally. If you have been struggling with this condition, you can adopt the treatment methods above to reduce the impact of severe acne breakouts.

Health

How to Know if You’re Depressed

Published

3 days ago

September 21, 2022

Michelle Langton

Are you depressed or just feeling down? Sometimes it’s hard to recognise where we sit on the depression scale. If you’re constantly experiencing feelings of sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness that can last for weeks, months, or even years; you may benefit from seeing an expert psychologist in Melbourne. This article should hopefully shine some light on the symptoms of depression, how to get help, and where to find support.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression is often defined as “a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest”. It’s more than just a bout of the blues, and it’s not simply a case of feeling sad after experiencing something upsetting. Rather, it’s an ongoing low mood that interferes with your everyday life and prevents you from enjoying activities that you used to love.

Symptoms of depression can include:

Feeling persistently sad, anxious, or “empty”
Loss of interest in activities or hobbies that you once enjoyed
Feeling hopeless, guilty, or worthless
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Fatigue and decreased energy levels
Sleeping too much or not being able to sleep
Appetite changes or weight gain/loss
Thoughts of death or suicide

How do I know if I’m depressed or just sad?

While it’s normal to feel sad from time to time, you may be suffering from depression if these feelings last for more than two weeks and are interfering with your ability to live a normal life. Depression can also be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as fatigue and changes in appetite. If you’re unsure whether you’re depressed or just sad, it’s best to see a mental health professional for an assessment.

What causes depression and how can it be treated?

There is no single cause of depression, but it can be triggered by a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, brain chemistry, hormones, and life events (such as trauma or loss). Depression is often treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. In some cases, Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) may also be recommended.

How can I help a loved one who is depressed?

If you think a loved one may be depressed, the best thing you can do is encourage them to see a mental health professional. You can also offer your support and understanding, and let them know that they are not alone. If you’re worried that they may be suicidal, it’s important to talk to them about it directly.

With the right help, depression can be treated and you can regain your lease on life. If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out for support.