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Cystic Acne In Women
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Acne is a condition that can affect people of all ages and both sexes, and
acne in women is a common experience that can occur for a number of
reasons.
Of course, the underlying reason for the presence of this skin disorder is
an over-activity of the sebaceous glands, and this means an over
production of oils, which can then clog the pores and combine with
bacteria to cause acne. Cystic acne is a form of acne that affects skin
tissue more deeply than other forms, and it is a condition that can cause
a lot of discomfort and pain.
Cystic acne results in abscesses on the skin and is caused by trapped oil
and bacteria in the pores. This is a condition that can rapidly spread yet
be slow to heal, and it can leave scarring. Trapped dead skin and dirt
combine with excess sebum and bacteria. Because this clogs up the pores,
the bacteria are able to reproduce, which results in the infection
spreading.
Cystic acne should not be squeezed as it can create a deeper infection
that takes even longer to heal.
Although this more severe form of acne seems to be more common in
teenagers, women can suffer from this as well. In some cases it can prove
problematic to treat, particularly for women of childbearing age. It
causes problems because of the infections that can stem from it, and
successfully treating these problems can take some time. There are a
number of options that can be used to deal with cystic acne in women;
however, with antibiotic treatment there may be a problem in that the
bacteria could have built up a resistance.
The acne treatments available over the counter are usually suited to
milder forms of acne. The severity that can come with cystic acne may not
respond to these treatments, and because many of the products are very
drying, they may irritate more mature and sensitive skin.
Hormonal changes can cause the excess sebum production that results in
acne, and many women experience break-outs during pregnancy. Pregnant
women should be aware that one form of cystic acne treatment, accutane,
cannot be used by them. Accutane has been linked to birth defects in
unborn children. Breastfeeding new mothers should also not take it.
Cystic acne in women can be awkward to treat because of the risks
associated with it, and women of childbearing age that develop this severe
form of acne should ensure that they seek medical advice with regards to
their treatment options.
By Rebecca
Prescott
Published: 5/30/2007 |
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