Monday, March 16, 2009

Cystic Acne in Women: Not a Pretty Sight, But Not Hopeless Either

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In Greek mythology, Helen of Troy was said to be so beautiful that her face launched a thousand ships. In fact, her extraordinary beauty is said to be one of the factors that sparked the Trojan War. Cystic acne in women involves aesthetic, physical and psychological issues in feminine health. The woman of today, whether she admits it or not, strives to achieve if not ravishing beauty, at least a presentable face. Hence, cystic acne in women will most likely launch not ships but tears, and will cause a woman to war with her feelings of self-esteem and self-confidence.

Cystic acne in women is hardly life-threatening disease, but it can be very distressing to say the least. Society places such a high premium on feminine beauty, so it's no wonder that women become depressed when they have severe acne or acne scars. In cystic acne, pimples are severely inflamed and are painful to the touch. One major problem with this condition is that it is resistant to many creams, ointments, and other topical medications. However, the condition is not hopeless. If a woman follows the recommendations of her dermatologist and continues to observe good hygiene, diet, and lifestyle practices, cystic acne can be treated and acne scars can be prevented.

Overproduction of oil by the skin glands is one of the major causes of cystic acne in women. Hyperactive oil glands can be triggered by excessive hormonal activity and imbalance, which usually occurs in the period before menstruation or during pregnancy. Another big factor is stress. Since many more women today are finding themselves having to balance their jobs with raising families, they experience more stress. Stress can provoke the adrenal glands to create more androgens, hormones that increase the body's oil production. This excess oil then clogs the skin's hair follicles, providing fertile ground for the bacterium that causes pimples. This could lead to the formation of acne scars, which are even more depressing.

Since cystic acne can be caused by hormonal changes, doctors may prescribe birth control pills or oral contraceptives, which contain anti-androgens, to help correct this imbalance and thus alleviate acne lesions. Certain persons whose acne is severely inflamed may be given antibiotics such as minocycline or tetracycline. Oral isotretinoin is also particularly effective in treating cystic acne in women and preventing acne scars, but there are certain caveats. Like many strong drugs, it has its share of side effects. One important thing to remember is that like some antibiotics, it must not be taken by women who are pregnant or who plan to get pregnant since it will have adverse effects on the fetus.

Other measures that dermatologists may take to treat cystic acne in women include the surgical drainage of inflamed pimples, abscesses, or pustules. Once inflammation has subsided, other procedures may be performed to eliminate acne scars, such as laser surgery, plastic surgery or microdermabrasion. These techniques should be conducted only by qualified and experienced dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or other medical personnel.

Helen of Troy, if she ever existed, had it a lot easier during her time. Today's woman is much more active and much more resilient. Cystic acne in women may be very problematic and unsightly. But with the right tools and attitude, it is a war that can be won.

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