Acne
Acne is a condition in which the sebaceous (oil) glands become
overactive and inflamed, causing a breakout of pimples on the skin. In
severe acne, infections and abscesses form in the oil glands. Now, with
presentday acne treatment, these problems can be avoided.
Acne develops mainly on the face, but it may also appear on the chest
and back. It can occur at any age, but it develops most often during
adolescence, when hormones produced by the adrenal and sex glands
increase the activity of the oil glands. Why some children develop acne
and other children do not is unknown.
Severe acne and consequent scarring can be avoided if the child
carefully cares for the skin and follows a doctor’s advice. With proper
care, the acne should become less severe or disappear after a few years.
The affected skin should be cleansed thoroughly at least two or
three times a day with warm water and mild soap.The child should not squeeze or pinch pimples.
Hair should be kept clean and dandruff free.
The child should not take any medicine unless the doctor advises it.
A balanced diet is important, as are a happy environment, proper
exercise, and adequate rest.
Encourage your child to follow the doctor’s instructions. The doctor may
advise oral or topical antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, and/or vitamin A
acid applications daily. In severe acne, oral retinoids may be
prescribed or the doctor may refer the child to a dermatologist. Special
surgery for acne may be
