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What Research is Being Done on Acne?
Let's start with what we know: Acne begins when sebaceous
glands secrete excess oil and flood the follicle. When the
oil presses up close to the skin and hardens to form a plug,
it is called a blackhead.
A blackhead,
despite the name, is not caused by dirt.
The black color is the oil, melatonin, and skin debris accumulated
at the opening the gland. Whiteheads are formed in similar
manner, but the plug is much deeper under the skin.
The American Academy of Dermatologists provides
open forums, information exchange and publishes studies in
all areas of skin care, including acne treatment and scar
reduction for those suffering from acne scarring.
Acne, because of its commonality, affects many people in different
ways. Studies have found that in adults as well as in teenagers, acne
outbreaks and severe
acne conditions can lead to:
- Social withdrawal
- Decreased self-esteem
- Reduced self-confidence
- Poor body image
- Embarrassment
- Feelings of depression
- Anger
- Preoccupation
- Frustration
- Higher rate of unemployment
Studies work to determine better methods for treating acne through
topical applications, whether using retinoids or isotretinoin. Research
has shown that isotretinoin can have adverse effects on the fetus
of pregnant women and women trying to become pregnant. WARNING: "Accutane
may cause depression, psychosis and, rarely, suicidal ideation, suicide
attempts and suicide."
Laser technology is being studied not only in the treatment of severe
nodular and cystic acne, but also in helping patients who have pitted
scars from previous acne outbreaks.
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Medical studies persist in trying to understand the effects
of hormones,
especially androgens (hormones
released by the sex organs in the body) and how they interact
with a person’s chemistry. Researchers are also studying
counter-acting hormone imbalance as well as the effects of
vitamins and minerals in the homeostasis of the body, hormonal
or otherwise.
Research continues as well into studies on stress, especially in modern
America, and how it affects the body from depressing the immune and
digestive system, to the level of depression and lack of self-esteem
it fosters as a person is too busy to take care of themselves.
While there is no cure for acne, it is 100% treatable with
modern methods and knowledge. Many treatment options are available
that successfully suppress almost every type of acne.
Based on our own research, we have found a solution that
takes in to account many of the causes and environmental variables
that result in acne. Feel
free to read more on ACNEZINE..
Acne research covers many fields and not all of them are related just
to the cosmetic effects, but also the psychological and physiological
effects that acne sufferers may face. Treatment research is an ongoing
and growing field.
Other Resources:
American Academy of Dermatology
Acne.net
BringHealth.com
McKinley Health Center
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