
Acne usually begins around puberty and tends to diminish in the 20s. Some people do continue having acne outbreaks into middle age (much to their dismay). Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin problem. Any skin inflammation promotes aging by activating enzymes that break down the skin’s structural building blocks, such as collagen and elastin. Apart from UV sun protection, one of the most effective anti-aging steps you can take toward skin health is to treat your acne. The methods you choose to treat your acne are extremely important. The overall number of inflamed facial acne lesions needs to be reduced for skin health, but any acne treatment that causes irritation or excessive dry skin should be used with caution. Irritation promotes the aging of the skin and excessive dryness limits the skin’s ability to bounce back by healing itself.
Topical benzoyl peroxide is one of the most successful acne treatments, generating oxygen free radicals that kill acne-causing bacteria. However, the very oxidizing strength that makes benzoyl peroxide so effective can also damage aging skin. It is best to use the lowest concentration of benzoyl peroxide that will work for you–2.5% may be high enough, particularly if combined with other, gentler skin treatments. Another popular acne treatment is topical retinoids, which are usually administered by prescription only. Side effects of retinoids include skin irritation, dryness, and UV light sensitivity. Skin must be protected from sunlight carefully when using this type of treatment. One retinoid called Retin-A (tretinoin) is a rare FDA-approved anti-wrinkle agent. When used properly, retinoids may reduce signs and mechanics of aging skin. Exfoliation with alpha or beta-hydroxy acids is often a common component of acne treatment. The effectiveness of exfoliation is debatable, though many argue it can improve the effects of other skin treatments. Moderate exfoliation is thought to have some benefits for rejuvenation of facial skin. Excessive use of any skin product can lead to chronic irritation, dryness, and sensitivity and ultimately accelerate the aging process.
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September 26th, 2008 at 8:30 pm
Acne and Aging Skin | Total Skin Solutions…
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September 26th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
Acne and Aging Skin | Total Skin Solutions…
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September 26th, 2008 at 8:33 pm
Acne and Aging Skin | Total Skin Solutions…
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September 26th, 2008 at 8:33 pm
Acne and Aging Skin | Total Skin Solutions…
Hey ladies, I am sure that you will love this site that I am sharing! Check it and see all the best resources and its offering of effective and safe to use skin care products, this will surely make you enjoy this site!…