It is not uncommon for someone to ask themselves, “Is acne a fungus?” It is important to know that acne is not caused by fungi. Fungi are living organisms that grow on dead organic matter and can be found in decaying plant material. In contrast, acne is caused by bacteria and sebum (oil). The bacteria that cause acne live on the skin and produce substances called porphyrins. Porphyrins are responsible for the redness and swelling of the skin. They also lead to the production of pus. Sebum, which is produced by the oil glands in the skin, is another cause of acne. This substance is responsible for the oily appearance of the skin.
There are many different types of acne treatments available to people who suffer from this condition. Some of these include topical medications, oral antibiotics, and laser treatments. Topical treatments include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids, and topical corticosteroids. Oral antibiotics used for treating acne include doxycycline, minocycline, erythromycin, and tetracycline. Laser treatments are usually only used for people with mild to moderate acne.
Acne is more than just an annoying blemish. It can affect a person’s self esteem, social life, and overall health. Many teenagers and young adults deal with acne for years before they seek medical help. There are many natural remedies that can be used to treat acne. These include herbal teas, lemon juice, and aloe vera.
Some acne sufferers choose to wear makeup or concealers instead of trying to hide their blemishes. Others choose to take advantage of the many different types of acne treatments that are available. If you are suffering from acne, you may want to talk to your doctor about your options. He or she can help you determine if there are any other treatments that will work better for you.