Skin Problems

[volleyball17]

Hello. I am 18 years old, and just graduated high school. I have had skin problems for as long as I can remember. They have hindered my confidence since grade school and continue to today. I try to hide my arms and avoid any contact with people because of the small red bumps that cover most of my upper arms; friends have suggested that it may be eczema. On my face, I only have slight acne. I break out occasionally, but it has progressively gotten worse. I suffer from what I believe to be rosacea; red blotches beneath my cheekbones. I have acne on my back, and often break out on my chest. I have tried everything, from lotions, to rubbing alcohol. I am in desperate need of help. I hope to one day become an actress, however, I feel that my skin conditions have, and will continue, to hold me back. Do you have any advise? I considered visiting a dermatologist’s office, but lack the financial stability to do so at the present time. Help?    

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Acne is due to an overactivity and plugging of the oil glands.The main cause of acne is increased levels of hormones during adolescence. Acne usually lasts until age 20 or even 25. It is rare for acne to leave any scars unless picked.

Just keep you face clean by washing with a mild soap atleast twice a day.Pat it dry and do not rub it.Avoid picking or pressing the acne.You can also use Benzoyl peroxide 5% lotion or gel once at bedtime. An amount of lotion the size of a pea should be enough to cover most of your face. If your skin becomes red or peels, you are using too much of the medicine or applying it too often.

Back and shoulder acne are quite difficult to treat compared to acne on other parts of the body. Thoroughly wash your body everyday, especially the back and shoulder part using a back brush and frequently change your bed sheet, as it is conducive for bacterial growth.Engage in a diet that is low in sugar and fat but is rich in vitamins. This prevents acne by preventing the buildup of excess oil on the skin.Also refrain from touching or squeezing your shoulder acne.Also try to keep your hair free of dandruff by using good antidandruff shampoos.You can also apply benzoyl peroxide creams or clindamycin cream on the acne.

If the symptoms persist,then oral antibiotics may be needed.Pls consult a dermatologist then. Also get confirmed the diagnosis of rosacea first then only treatment can be planned.

Hope it helps.Take care and regards.

[jagesh50]

A pic would be ideal to give a diagnosis.As for Acne take a course of VitA for about 15 days,with calamine application.Pregnancy would be a contra for vitA,and longer course not recommended.Do consult your doc.You can aso take Bcarotene instead either as capsules or as nutritional supplement.