Pimples on face are generally called **ACNE;**.so called small skin eruptions by some. But here as a doctor I will label it as **“Acne Vulgaris”**.it encompasses whiteheads;blackheads and raised semisolid red marks.**ACNE VULGARIS** can erupt at any age(not necessarily teenage years); and can come on face; also back; chest; neck and shoulders!
**CAUSES-** Sebaceous glands beneath skin hair follicles secrete too much sebum;it blocks the glands;causes **PIMPLES!**It there is rupture because of more pressure; it breaks;and causes local infection;(more difficult to treat).
*1)Most of time it is because of **HORMONAL changes;** mostly in boys.
2)In females **“menstrual periods or pregnancy”** can cause these.
3)**EMOTIONAL** stress; Mood swing etc.
4)Certain medications like oral contraceptives;Steroids.
5)Certain doctors still blame chocolates; oily food; Colas.*
All are requested to consult a doctor/dermatologist/comotologist rather than doing SELF MEDICATION(generally what happens everywhere).I have divided treatment of it in three parts; all of which are equally important.
I) **LOCAL APPLICATION;PRECAUTION**-Face or affected areas should be washed frequently with luke warm water using “SULPHUR” soap. After washing face; dry it under fan; do not wipe it with towel or tissue papers! If it doe not get dried easily mop it but do not wipe! If you have long nails; do not touch acne. There are many creams/gel for acne. Retino-A; Oxy-5; and many more; but important thing is that you must control infection by Antibiotics before application of any cream/gel!
II) **Avoid COMETICS** till you are cured or use “NONCOMEDOGENIC” or OIL-FREE cosmetics.Donot touch; prick; or scratch!
III) **BALANCED DIET with VITAMINS;Minerals—**
You should have **BALANCED DIET.** Lot of fruits; Raw salads; Soups; Butter milk; coco nut water; and you are supposed to drink 2 litres of water(in humid; hot climate like in BOMBAY).
There are certain vitamins which help in treating Acne.
* 1)Vitamin-A; like Scerobion;Arovit);it controls SEBUM!
2)Vitamin B6-(not more than 50 mgm.)
3)Vitamin-C- 500 mgm. is sufficient.(donot take more)
4)ZINC- 15-20 mgm of Zinc( which is generally available wit B-
Complex capsules(like Cobadex-z)
5)Primrose(Simrose) Oil-1000 mgm daily.Always buy with vitamin E.*
**DR. SHAFIQUE PATHAN**