Decoding acne

Acne or pimple is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the sebaceous unit present in the skin.

Dermatologist Dr Jaishree Sharad explains, “In mild to moderate cases, there may be black heads (comedones), white heads (papules) or pustules. In severe cases, there are nodules, cysts and abscess which lead to scarring if not treated on time.”

Common among teenagers
Though mostly seen on 13-30 year olds, it may persist even beyond this age limit. Males are more frequently affected due to androgen activity. Females may get a pre-menstrual flare due to the increase in level of a hormone called progesterone.

Factors leading to it
Acne can be genetic. Use of cosmetics such as creams, oil based moisturisers, oil based foundations, etc, hot and humid climate or stress can cause acne. Application of heavy oil or gel on the scalp leads to pimples on the back and forehead. Drugs such as oral contraceptives, steroids, isoniazid, lithium, phenytoin, iodides etc., can cause pimples. Squeezing or picking at a pre-existing lesion will lead to secondary infection and increased pigmentation. Finally, if acne persists despite treatment or if the patient has hair loss, or an endocrine disorder, it must be considered and investigations carried out accordingly.

Dos and don’ts in treating it
– Use a salicylic acid based facewash at least twice a day. Have citrus fruits such as oranges, grapes, lime and lemon and other foods high in vitamin C and zinc. Drink plenty of water. Avoid dairy products.
– Avoid the use of oily cosmetics, cleansing milk and gels. Do not apply excessive hair oil if you have acne on the forehead.
– Avoid stress factors. Do not pick or squeeze the pimples as this causes infection, pigmentation and scarring. You may have to take antibiotics for 8 – 10 weeks. Be patient and give medicines time to act.

Tips you can use

– For the perfect forehead
Ritoo says, “Know your face well so you can place highlight and shadow accordingly — if you have a large forehead like Sonakshi Sinha, you should use a dark shade, (three shades darker than your foundation) close to the hair line. You can draw a thicker line, a little above the centre of the forehead. This, when blended will make your forehead look less broad.

– Glowing cheek
Aesthetician Ritu Singh Tanwar says, “Use blobs of pink right on the apples of your cheek. Merge it well with the light and dark foundation to give your face a sculpted and smooth look.”

– Balance the jaw line
If you have a sharp jaw line already, don’t go with very dark and strong contouring.

– Slim down your nose
You can make your nose appear thinner by drawing attention to the bridge of the nose. Use a light highlighter (two to three shades lighter than your foundation) on the bridge and sweep shades of dark foundation on the sides. This will make it look slimmer and longer than it is.