Peter G. Hanson M.D.

Acne in teenage years is certainly embarassing, but at least it is very common among the peer group.  Also, at this age, most teenagers know they will soon outgrow the problem.  Newer medications also can be very helpful.www.facemaster.com

However, as an adult, acne is much more of a nuisance.  It is not common among your age group, and it might not be something you will “grow” out of.  We all want to be young in some aspects, but reverting to one’s acne years is sure not what Ponce de Leon had in mind with his fountain of youth. 

Both adults and teenagers can benefit from some basics here.

1. Avoid white sugar (and white flour, which turns to sugar).  The basis of acne, at a cellular level, is inflammation.  White sugar is the worst inflammatory in the grocery store.  Next time you feel like “comfort” food, think of the real image:  a bottle of gasoline that you are about to spray on a barbecue!

2. Consider acidophylis bacteria: In many cases, acne can flourish because of an upset in the normal balance of your bacterial ecosystem.  A simple oral tablet with millions of these bacteria can make a significant improvement.  Yogurt has the same bacteria, but normally in much smaller quantities.

3. Don’t handle the acne.  Wash your face with a good quality soap at least twice daily, but in between times don’t touch your face.  Squeezing the acne, or otherwise picking at it only makes the problem worse, and introduces a new wave of bacteria to the face.  If you must touch the skin, be sure to wash your hands first, or use a few drops of liquid hand sanitizer.

For more information about Dr. Hanson, visit www.peterhansonmd.com.

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