Applying beauty creams on the face may do more harm than good, says an Indian dermatologist. This is because such products are said to be the root causes of acne and may even cause thinning of the skin.
On Sunday, Feb. 21, hundreds of dermatologists gathered at the Acne India Summit to enhance their skills and knowledge about the common skin problem that is acne.
Thinning Of The Skin
"The obvious side effect of using beauty creams on face is thinning of the skin," says dermatology expert Rohit Batra. He adds that when people use these products every day, they may experience acne growth and loose skin, which may result in thinning.
Acne Is Not Just For Teens
Acne is most commonly associated with puberty and teenagers, but this is not necessarily true all the time. In fact, there has been growing incidence of severe acne among people aged 15 to 44 years old.
"Every patient wants a cure as no one wants to live with scars on their face," says Batra.
Having said that, Batra says new technologies are now available to get rid of acne and acne scars. Examples of such procedures include laser therapy, chemical peels and light therapy, among others.
Dermatologists Empowered
"Acne India Summit aims to provide [a] multi-speciality platform for a dermatologist[s] to learn [about] acne like never before," the committee says.
The one-day program also included a quiz and workshop to better impart new skills and knowledge.
Batra says the participants are now knowledgeable about modern technologies and thus can help their patients regain self-esteem.
Acne India Summit was held at the Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, where about 250 licensed dermatologists, students, members of the academe and other delegates from across the country participated.
More About Acne
Acne is a long-term, inflammatory skin condition that includes blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and big, deeper skin lumps on the face, neck, shoulders, upper arms, chest and back.
Acne does not only cause one to suffer physically, as it also affects a person's psychological state because it causes permanent scarring, disturbed body image, anxiety and depression, among others.
Aside from that, acne can also cause some financial woes as some treatments may be expensive. In the United States, acne treatment is estimated to exceed to $3 billion. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using only the prescribed medications and products and to comply as directed.
It's also better to avoid using over-the-counter products without a doctor's advice to prevent unwanted side effects such as allergic reactions.
Acne is the most common skin problem in the United States. The condition affects about 40 to 50 million people per year.
