ACNE

Acne is the most common skin disease with a prevalence of 35%–90% in adolescents. It peaks between the ages of 14 and the beginning of the third decade, but may persist into or develop de novo in adulthood (20% men and 35% women). The disease causes significant physical and psychological morbidity. At Akiya Aesthetics, Dr. Rupika Singh offers acne treatment in Ghaziabad & Delhi. Acne can be considered as a chronic disease in view of the older and the most recent definitions of chronicity by the World Health Organization.

The oil-producing glands in the skin are stimulated by hormones after puberty to produce more sebum. The dead cells, bacteria & sebum form a plug at the outlet of the pilosebaceous follicle and appear as blackheads (open comedones). If the plug remains below the surface it appears as whiteheads (closed comedones). The bacteria cause inflammation in the pilosebaceous unit. P.acnes also initiates comedone formation. This leads to inflammation and formation of large solid bumps, pustules & fluid filled cavities called cysts.

Below are a few common aggravating factors for acne seen at Akiya:-

Hormonal imbalance

Sometimes in females, multiple cysts in the ovaries called polycystic ovarian syndrome can cause acne in addition to irregular cycles, weight gain, and hair loss on the scalp & excessive hair on the face. In that case, we recommend blood testing – typically to be performed on the 2nd & 3rd day of your menstrual cycle.

Heightened Sensitivity

Pre-menstrual aggravations are commonly seen. Though hormonal factors are implicated, it is the peripheral heightened sensitivity that causes acne.

Diet

Diet is an important factor in aggravating acne. Acne is not caused by specific foods, but certain foods may make some people’s acne worse. Milk is known to increase insulin levels, which may worsen acne severity. Cow’s milk also contains an amino acid that stimulates excess productions of IGF-1 which has been linked to the development of acne. Hence a better alternative is Almond milk.

Whey Protein

Whey increases insulin levels and Casein increases IGF-1 levels resulting in a flare-up of acne. A better alternative would be Plant-based protein like Orgain Organic Protein Plant-based powder.

Alcohol

Alcohol is a diuretic which can dehydrate your skin, disturbing the skin ph. This leads to the overproduction of sebum, clogging the pores, and resulting in acne.

Dandruff

Dandruff can clog pores and lead to pimples. Many of our patients think oiling their hair is a cure for dandruff; this is absolutely not true. Oiling your hair can actually make dandruff worse. Luckily, at AKIYA, we treat dandruff too. Please consult our clinic for recommendations on a regimen to improve and prevent dandruff.