Acne - Frequently Asked Questions

Is it catching?

No. Acne is a glandular complaint not an infection. You can't give it to your friends by touching or kissing. However, bacteria on the skin's surface can certainly irritate the condition for you that’s why regular, thorough cleansing is essential.



Does long hair aggravates acne?

The same circumstances that are producing too much sebum in your skin, may also produce too much sebum in the hair follicles on your head that's why greasy hair and, occasionally, dandruff go handing hand with acne. If grease from the hair is allowed to touch the skin, this will certainly cause a build up of dirt, oil and bacteria which will inflame the spots. Keep hair very clean with a medicated shampoo and keep it off your face. However, if acne spots are not present on the neck, there's no reason for cutting hair really short. But avoid fringes, sidecurls, long sideboards and floppy fronds which continually touch the face.



Should I use an astringent to close open pores?

Cleanse face thoroughly at night, and splash with a little cold water. A harsh astringent which artificially closes pores will actually prevent excess sebum escaping naturally through hair follicles and could make your acne worse. It's better to wake up with a shiny face in the morning and wash off the grease and dirt straight away!



Is acne an allergy?

No. It is always the result of glandular and hormonal activity.



Does it automatically disappear at the end of adolescence?

Not necessarily. Glandular activity can go on right into the twenties. Dramatic bodily changes like pregnancy can also bring a crop of acne spots on face, back or chest. But the most likely time for bad acne is during the teens. The vast majority of cases improves dramatically then disappear altogether in the early twenties.

Does it run in families?

Yes over active sebaceous glands can be a family tendency. However, like overweight, some can be attributed to family habits as well as inherited physical traits. If thorough washing isn't exactly a family habit then it should be. Similarly, if you are brought up with a diet that contains insufficient vitamin C skin troubles can result.



How common is it?

Very. Most boys and the vast majority of girls experience some form of skin trouble in puberty. So don't think you are a lone sufferer!



Does eating chocolate make it worse? No. Chocolate and fried foods are no longer thought to aggravate acne. However, where these foods are eaten in preference to those which actually help to provide the minerals and vitamins which form healthy skin, trouble can start. But this is due to an insufficiency of the "good" foods, rather than too many of the "bad". However, chocolate, fried foods and starch will certainly help make you fat and sugary foods will hasten dental decay and surely one problem is enough for now?



Can I insist on seeing a dermatologist?

First, do try the remedies suggested by your doctor. Then, you can certainly suggest that a visit to a dermatologist might help. Many young acne sufferers are " doctor resistant" to extremes. Don't be. Give him a chance and listen to his advice.



Will sunshine help clear it up?

Strong sunshine which tans the skin (or an ultra violet lamp) will disguise the condition and help dry up the grease but it won't cure acne. If you perspire heavily while sunbathing, you'll make things worse.