TIPS: How to cure acne the right way

Camouflaging flare-ups with layers of make-up might be damaging your skin in the long run.

When 19-year-old California model Cassandra Bankson posted a video demonstrating how she deftly camouflages her severe acne with make-up, she had no idea that she was going to become the latest web star with two million viewers.

HT Image

Bankson may have been applauded by fans worldwide but is it a good idea to cover up acne under loads of make-up?

Experts feel that make-up can help you flaunt a flawless complexion for a few hours, but only at the cost of your skin’s health. "Acne, no matter how chronic or severe, can be cured, but hiding it under layers of make-up can cause more harm. Several adolescents don’t know how to deal with acne. They must go to a doctor for treatment," says dermatologist Dr Deepti Dhillon, Appleskin Clinic. Explaining how make-up can damage pimple-affected skin, Dr Dhillon adds, "When you use make-up, the chances of eruptions getting infected increase as your pores are clogged."

What is the cause?

Acne is caused by internal factors. Experts advise proper medical interventionrather than rushing to a beauty clinic. "It could be genetic or the result of a hormonal imbalance. It might even be a reaction to a drug. Each type of acne requires different treatment and a beautician is not equipped to deal with that," says Dr Sachin Dhawan, dermatologist.

Getting treated

Treatment begins with determining the cause, which could involve conducting medical tests, oral and topical medication. "For severe acne, oral medication needs to be

consumed for a year. Medicines such as isotretinoin that help shrink the size of oil glands permanently, or oral contraceptive pills in case of hormonal imbalances, along with topical retinoids, are given," says Dr Dhawan. Once the acne starts subsiding, procedures such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion could prove helpful.