There are various types of acne that affect women throughout their lifetime. 85% of adolescents and young adults from ages 12 to 35 suffer from some varying degrees of acne, and more than 50% of adult women suffer from occasional breakouts. Acne vulgaris is the most common acne effecting teens and young adults presenting comedones, inflamed papules and pustules. During puberty, a hormone known as DHT (dihydrotestosterone) can over-stimulate the sebaceous glands, resulting in an excessive production of sebum. This oil accumulates in the follicles and clogs the pores, resulting in acne.Increased sebum production provides an environment for the overgrowth of P-acnes bacteria, which is linked to the cause of acne. This bacteria can cause inflammation, which results in the formation of the papules, pustule and blockages (keratin and sebum) in follicles that leads to the presence of acne.
Salicylic acid minimizes breakouts, helps slough off pore-clogging skin cells, promotes skin clarity and aids skin clearing. It treats acne right at the source, keeping skin clear and healthy; tea tree oil [Melaleuca Alternifolia] calms inflammation and is an anti-bacterial with purifying properties. Results are said to be comparable to benzoyl peroxide, but without excessive drying and it has been shown to be an effective anti-inflammatory in skin infections.
Source: Sothys VIP EMail News August 5, 2010
