KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 11: Individuals that are prone to acne should think twice about their consumption of milk, a recent research suggests.
According to findings by the Harvard School of Public Health, teenagers who drink a pint or more of milk a day are almost 45 per cent more likely to develop spots and pimples than those who rarely or never drink milk.
The research attributes this to the androgenic hormones found naturally in milk may trigger the same mechanism that can lead to acne.
Androgenic hormones such as testosterone begin to form in males and females during puberty to control the development as well as maintenance of masculine characteristics.
Other implicated elements are the Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), which elevates insulin levels that lead to an excess of androgenic hormones as well as promotes abnormal keratinisation of skin cells (keratinocytes)
According to Dr. Steven Chow, a consultant dermatologist, androgens can prompt a surge in the production of the oily substance (sebum) at the skin sites attached to hair follicles.
“Excess of oil (sebum) and cells build up in the duct to clog pores with a firm, solidified oil plug, creating an environment where bacteria and yeast can thrive. The body's immune system responds, inflaming the area and causing acne or plugged pores.
“However, finding a link between acne and milk is not the same as saying milk causes acne. There are many other factors that can trigger this condition such as stress and one’s genetic make-up although it is likely that lowering the consumption may decrease the chances of the disease in someone who is acne-prone.
“What is important for clear skin is to maintain a healthy skin regiment. Should acne suddenly break out and over-the-counter acne fighters don't do the job, seek help from a professional to obtain suitable treatment solutions, which can range from antibiotics, retinoids up to acne-surgery.”
External retinoids applications are usually the first line of defense to tackle mild to moderate acne. They work by increasing skin cell turnover. The latest retinoids contain adapalene that helps skin cells shed normally, unblocking pores before they transform into red angry pimples.
Plugged pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples and deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) can occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and even the upper arms.
For severe acne, characterized by deep cysts, inflammation, extensive damage to the skin, a more interventive treatment by a dermatologist is a necessity, advised Dr. Chow.
Some treatment options for severe acne include surgery, oral isotretinoin and hormonal-modulating agents like oral contraceptives.
Acne surgery serves to drain and extract large cysts that do not respond to medication. It should be done by medical professionals so as not to cause infection and scarring.
Isotretinoin is a potent drug containing vitamin A derivative that has shown to be effective on cystic acne and is consumed orally.
“Clear skin is possible for even the most acne prone individual. All it takes is getting the right advice, manage your skin prudently and in time it will heal,” said Dr. Chow.
BE GENTLE TO YOUR SKIN
Healthy skin regime
1. Scrub gently
The first most important thing for an acne prone skin is hygiene. It should include no harsh scrubbing or over-washing, because this can cause possible skin irritation or over production of oil to replace what has been washed off, clogging pores in the process.
2. Choose the right products
Products with gentle exfoliation ingredient should be used so as not to tear the skin. Also skip products containing alcohol where possible as these can take off the top layer of the skin and cause the glands to produce more oil, further causing blocking of pores.
3. Don’t Pick at troubled spots
If you do spot acne-troubled areas, do not pick at them. This can aggravate the risk of skin inflammation and acne scars. In terms of make up, use a light skin moisturizer and oil free makeup.
Should acne suddenly start breaking out after having clear skin for years and over-the-counter acne fighters don't do the job, seek help from your family doctor or a dermatologist.
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