Why do men have oily skin on their faces? Sources of this problem in men

How can men take care of oily and sensitive skin? (photo: @menwithskincare) Men naturally have oilier, thicker, and more sensitive skin than women. It resists age-related changes better, that is, wrinkles appear on it much later, but it is more prone to inflammation, redness, rashes, blackheads, enlarged pores and oily sheen. To look perfect, men should follow two rules of facial care:

cleanse your face every morning and evening using special exfoliating products,
Be sure to moisturize and nourish the skin with products with soothing and mattifying properties.

Below are the best products from these two categories that will help men forget about skin problems

Male and female: what techniques and skin care products can be adopted from each other Read

Stage one: cleansing (photo: @menwithskincare)

Why do men have oily skin on their faces? Sources of this problem in men

The causes of oily facial skin in men can be different.
Experts believe that the main factor is hereditary predisposition. If parents have this problem, most likely it will affect their children.

The next most important reason is nutrition and the general condition of the human body. Thanks to a balanced diet, it is possible to normalize the condition of the dermis.

Increased oil production may be the result of excess sugar and carbohydrate consumption.

If you change your diet and include more protein foods, your skin's oiliness will decrease significantly. It is important to consider that the diet should be balanced.

The amount of water can also affect the condition of the skin. The daily norm is 30-40 ml per kilogram of body weight. In this case, you need to drink not coffee or juices, but clean water without gas.

People who are concerned about the condition of the dermis should avoid smoking. Nicotine has a detrimental effect on overall health. Under its influence, the pores expand and become clogged faster.

Often the cause of problems lies in violation of personal hygiene rules. A film often appears on the skin, which consists of dirt, dust, oil and sweat. This mixture fills the pores, causing inflammation. As a result, acne develops.

If you neglect the rules of hygiene, not a single remedy will help cope with this problem. You need to wash your face in the morning and evening. You should also shower daily. If a man goes to the gym, he should take a shower after each workout. This will help wash away traces of sweat and dirt.

The appearance of oily shine is due to the hormones produced by the male body.

One of the main ones is testosterone. With age, the synthesis of this element decreases, and the skin becomes drier. The maximum production of this hormone is observed at 16-35 years of age.

The culprit of excess sebum may be another hormone, which is considered to be a derivative of testosterone. Its excess amount can provoke not only the formation of acne, but also more dangerous conditions. In such a situation, consultation with a dermatologist and endocrinologist is required.

Sometimes the cause of problems is due to the use of certain medications.

This reaction in men is often observed due to the consumption of dietary supplements that are used to build muscle mass or increase potency.

Even drugs that have a natural composition can lead to increased fat content. As a result, there is a risk of disruption of the functioning of internal organs and glands.

The causes of oily skin can be very different. Most often they are associated with hereditary predisposition, changes in the balance of hormones and eating disorders. In some cases, the reason may lie in the presence of serious diseases. In such situations, it will not be possible to do without qualified medical assistance.

Oily facial skin in men - folk remedies. Oily facial skin in men

Few people know that the skin of men, unlike women, is much thicker and has more sebaceous glands, and therefore is oilier. The problem with oily facial skin is that its pores tend to be clogged, acne appears, it becomes shiny and untidy.

The main reasons for this problem are: smoking, insufficient water consumption, lack of rest and sleep, and, of course, the hereditary factor. Also, oily facial skin most often appears in those who do not watch their diet - scientists have proven that frequent consumption of sweet foods leads to a worsening of its condition. Moreover, insufficient or improper cleansing of the skin can also cause increased oiliness. Well, and lastly, stress, depression and nervous experiences provoke the appearance of acne.

Oily skin reveals itself with a characteristic shine, enlarged pores and pimples. And the active sebaceous glands and male sex hormones are to blame for this, which enhance their work.

To be fair, we note that oily dermis is the most common type among men, so let’s find out what to do if you are one of those “lucky” ones.

Care for oily skin

Let's start with the good news: those with oily facial skin look much younger than their biological age, since the natural oils secreted by the sebaceous glands keep the epidermis elastic and smooth longer. Moreover, after thirty years, the activity of the sebaceous glands decreases, and the skin becomes normal. However, until sebum production is reduced, steps must be taken to ensure that this type of dermis is properly cared for. It consists of three basic rules:

proper cleansing;
hydration;
additional procedures to eliminate acne.

Tests

Are you an active person?
Do you know women?
What type of women are you attracted to?
Which one of you is a lover?
Do you know your wife?
Can you quit smoking?

Skin cleansing

To cleanse oily facial skin, you need to use a mild cleanser - gel or foam - twice a day. Rinse off the product with plenty of cool water. If you have acne, wipe your face with an antibacterial toner after washing your face.

Important! Never wash your face with hot water, as this is what has a stimulating effect on the sebaceous glands.

Hydration

After washing your face, be sure to apply an oil-free moisturizer or lotion to your face. The cream should be designed specifically for oily skin and ideally contain antibacterial agents and zinc, which treat acne.

Important! Shaving gel is most suitable for oily skin, as it tends to absorb some of the fat from its surface. Therefore, choose shaving gel rather than foam or soap solution.

Procedures

To deeply cleanse oily facial skin, you need to exfoliate once a week using a scrub and apply a cleansing clay mask to your face. Cosmetic clay (which is sold in any pharmacy) ideally absorbs oil, cleanses pores and has a soothing effect.

And a few more tips for caring for oily skin:

Never squeeze pimples as you risk spreading bacteria further across your face and causing more pimples. Treat pimples with special ointments or gels that will dry out the rashes, but do not squeeze them out;
mattifying lotions can instantly improve the condition of the skin as they eliminate excess fat and greasy shine;
You can remove excess fat during the day with regular wet wipes. They will help not only cleanse your face, but also prevent the appearance of new pimples and blackheads;
keep your hands away from your face as hands contain a lot of bacteria that lead to acne.

Now you know how to care for oily skin, which means, armed with the necessary products, you can defeat oily shine, pimples and blackheads.

Good luck and great results!

There are skin diseases that are treated by both dermatologists and cosmetologists. These include things that everyone may have, that you may not pay attention to, but that you really want to get rid of, since it affects the aesthetic appearance of the skin. So, these are problems that spoil the appearance and cause not so much physical as mental suffering. We will focus here only on the most common ones - Acne, seborrhea and various formations on the skin.

Acne vulgaris or juvenile acne

Acne

– the most common skin disease in adolescents and young people, that is, the most socially active part of the population. This unpleasant disease affects about 85% of people aged 12 to 25 years in European countries, so clear skin at this age is the exception rather than the rule. The presence of inflamed pimples, pustules and ulcers, blackheads (comedones), spots and scars, a greasy, untidy appearance of the skin in the most visible places causes difficulties in communication, professional organization, reduces self-esteem, and often leads to the formation of significant psycho-emotional disorders, even the desire for complete isolation. Some young people stop leaving home, give up school and work, become isolated, and eventually a minor and completely banal skin problem develops into a personal tragedy. A patient who consults a dermatologist about acne has serious psychological problems. Shyness, guilt, a sense of social unacceptability, anger, depression, and disbelief in the possibility of a cure are expressed to varying degrees. Intense experiences aggravate the course of the disease. In stressful situations, patients, especially women, pick at the skin and squeeze out acne, which further worsens the appearance of the skin due to associated inflammation. In such injured areas, scars and spots remain that do not go away for a long time.

Acne

– a long-term disease, often exacerbating (in girls, usually monthly) and often resistant to treatment. Currently, we know much more about acne than ten years ago, and a competent specialist can always help a patient. In this regard, the opinion that existed in the past that acne will go away on its own with age, and therefore there is no need to waste effort on treating it, now sounds simply absurd. It is not always possible to immediately find the right individual approach, but the efforts made and perseverance shown are always rewarded with a good result. Specialists have a number of effective medications from different groups in their arsenal. The choice of drug depends on the form of the disease, the predominance of certain symptoms, the gender of the patient, and the presence of contraindications.

Acne is most often divided into:

acne with a predominance of comedones (white and blackheads with mild inflammation);
papulopustular acne (there are comedones, inflamed nodules - what are usually called pimples, pustules, sometimes single large painful lumps, gradually turning into ulcers such as boils);
conglobate acne (along with all of the above, there are long-term painful lumps that leave pronounced scars after healing).

Over time, most patients develop the habit of squeezing out comedones and pustules, constantly touching the inflamed skin, which is why bloody crusts, spots, and superficial scars are added to everything described.

Many factors take part in the development of acne, the action of which is ultimately realized in the pilosebaceous follicles. Not all follicles are affected, but only those with a special structure, located on the face and in the upper part of the body, with large sebaceous glands, wide (up to 2.5 mm) ducts and thin, almost invisible hairs. The sebaceous glands are the target organ for sex hormones, especially testosterone. Under the influence of testosterone, produced by the gonads especially actively in adolescence, the size and number of sebaceous glands increase significantly, the production of sebum increases, and its composition changes. In addition, in the development of acne, disruption of the keratinization of the sebaceous gland ducts, difficulty in the outflow of sebum to the surface of the skin, increased proliferation of microbes in accumulated sebum and subsequent inflammation are essential. With the help of modern medicines it is possible to influence almost all factors involved in the development of the disease.

At the initial manifestations of acne (usually at the age of 8–13 years), when the clinical picture is dominated by increased oily skin and comedones (whitish nodules and blackheads), and there are not many inflammatory elements, preparations of retinoic and salicylic acids are used externally. Both acids have the property of dissolving comedones, and salicylic acid has a much weaker effect in this regard. For papulopustular acne, it is advisable to use antibiotics, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide (benzoyl peroxide), traditional external agents (salicylic, chloramphenicol, resorcinol alcohols). Severe forms of acne, including conglobate acne, should be treated with retinoids prescribed orally, and only if there are contraindications, other treatment methods (antibiotics, immunomodulators) should be used. As with papulopustular acne, it is preferable to use a combination of different drugs.

Problems solved during the treatment process and ways to solve them:

reduction in sebum production (retinoids, especially retinoic acid, hormonal drugs - estrogens, progestins or antiandrogens, spironolactones);
reduction of inflammation - antibiotics (tetracyclines, erythromycin, lincomycin, clindamycin) and local anti-inflammatory and microcirculation-improving agents, including zinc oxide, sulfur, tar, ichthyol, resorcinol;
prevention of the appearance and elimination of comedones (retinoids, especially retinoic acid, salicylic alcohol);
preventing the appearance of scars (early initiation of treatment, retinoids, curiosin, contractubex, avoiding trauma to rashes).

Features of acne treatment with drugs of different groups

Currently, retinoids are the most effective group of drugs for the treatment of acne. Their use solves several problems at once - reducing sebum production and inflammation, preventing the appearance and elimination of comedones and scars. Two isomers of retinoic acid (tretinoin and isotretinoin) are used for external treatment of acne. Roaccutane and Retinol palmitate are used for internal treatment of conglobate acne and common papulopustular acne resistant to other external agents.

Roaccutane (isotretinoin) (Hoffmann-La Roche, Switzerland) is available in capsules for oral use of 10 and 20 mg (30 pieces per package). Prescribed at the rate of 0.5–1.0 mg/kg body weight per day, taken in equal parts 2 times a day after meals for 12–16 weeks. If repeated courses are necessary, the break should be at least 8 weeks. Roaccutane is a highly effective drug, however, its use is limited by high cost and many side effects. Treatment is always carried out under the supervision of a specialist.

Retinol palmitate

(vitamin A) is a domestic drug, it is produced in capsules for oral use at 33,000 and 100,000 IU, as well as in an oil solution at 100,000 IU/ml. Effective doses for acne are at least 300,000 IU per day. The course of treatment is 12–16 weeks. The intervals between courses are 4–8 weeks. Retinol palmitate is inferior in effectiveness to Roaccutane, however, it is better tolerated and the cost is much lower.

For external treatment of acne, preparations containing all-trans retinoic acid (tretinoin) and 13-cis-retinoic acid (isotretinoin) are used. All-trans retinoic acid is contained in the following foreign preparations: Retin-A – 0.05% cream in tubes of 30 g (Silag, Switzerland), Lokatsid – 0.05% cream in tubes of 30 g and 0.1% solution in 15 ml bottles (“Pierre Fabre”, France). External preparations with 13-cis-retinoic acid, which has higher bioavailability, are produced only in Russia - Retinoic ointment 0.1% and 0.05% and Retasol® (FNPP "Retinoids"). It is recommended to apply ointments and solution to previously cleansed skin 1-2 times a day. Once the effect is achieved, it is recommended to reduce the concentration or reduce the frequency of application of the drug. Duration of treatment is 12–16 weeks.

Drugs from the retinoid group have a number of side effects. The most serious of them are teratogenicity and embryotoxicity. In this regard, women of childbearing age are prescribed retinoids with reliable contraception and a negative pregnancy test. In the outpatient card, when prescribing systemic treatment, a note is usually made about the woman’s awareness of possible side effects, and abroad dermatologists offer women to fill out and sign a special form in order to avoid further prosecution in the event of side effects. External treatment with drugs of this group is stopped when pregnancy occurs. Retinoids do not have a negative effect on the reproductive function of men.

In the first or second week of treatment, most patients experience an exacerbation reaction, expressed in redness, moderate itching, and peeling of the skin. The patient should be warned about the reaction, and if he is facing important life events at this time, then it is better to postpone the start of treatment. Typically, these phenomena go away on their own within a few days, after which a lasting improvement occurs. Dry lips, cracks in the corners of the mouth, peeling of the skin are common during the treatment process; they are eliminated by using a neutral moisturizing cream for the face and body, hygienic lipstick or lip gel, and limiting the use of detergents when washing and washing. With systemic administration of retinoids, dry nasal mucosa, nosebleeds, conjunctivitis, urethritis, increased levels of transaminases and lipids in the blood, and increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight are sometimes observed. Taking this into account, before the start of treatment and monthly during treatment, a biochemical blood test is performed, it is recommended to use sun protective creams, and avoid direct sunlight.

Contraindications

pregnancy and lactation, abnormalities in biochemical blood tests (hyperlipidemia, increased activity of ALT, AST and alkaline phosphatase), renal and liver failure, hypervitaminosis A, drug intolerance. Retinoids cannot be prescribed simultaneously internally and externally, ultraviolet irradiation, drugs with keratolytic and exfoliating effects, exfoliating cosmetic procedures and products (scrubs, peeling). The effect of retinoids is weakened by the simultaneous use of glucocorticosteroid drugs and alcohol intake.

Antibiotics

Of the wide range of antibiotics used to treat acne, only tetracyclines, erythromycin, lincomycin, josamycin and clindamycin are used. Prescription of antibiotics orally is indicated when a large area of skin is affected, with a predominance of pustules. During pregnancy, only erythromycin can be used among these drugs.

Antibiotics of the tetracycline group have an advantage over other groups, since they are lipophilic and easily reach the main object of their action - the sebaceous glands. They can be prescribed for a long time - 2-3 months in a small dose. In this case, they block the production of bacterial lipases, the main link in the development of inflammation. A significant advantage of this method is the possibility of long-term treatment without disturbing the composition of the intestinal flora. The daily dose of tetracycline is 1000 mg (10 tablets of 0.1 g or 4 tablets of 0.25 g), doxycycline hydrochloride is 50 mg (1 capsule of 0.05 g once a day), Unidox Solutab is 50 mg ( 1/2 tablet of 0.1 g), metacycline - 600 mg (2 times a day, 0.3 g). Antibiotics of the tetracycline group in the indicated doses are always well tolerated, and side effects characteristic of long-term use at a bacteriostatic dose do not develop. Tetracyclines are contraindicated in concomitant fungal diseases, pregnancy (last trimester), liver dysfunction, leukopenia, children under 8 years of age, and kidney disease. During treatment, insolation is not recommended, ultraviolet irradiation, retinoids for internal use, hormonal contraceptives, psychotropic, anticonvulsant and antidiabetic drugs are not prescribed. Absorption of tetracycline is weakened in the presence of food, especially milk and fermented milk products, as well as trace elements - aluminum, calcium, magnesium, iron. Their use should be avoided during treatment. Tablets are taken separately from meals.

Doxycycline, Metacycline and Unidox Solutab are better absorbed and can be taken with or after meals with plenty of water. Unfortunately, microorganisms quickly develop resistance to drugs in this group, and when re-prescribed they are rarely effective.

Erythromycin belongs to the group of macrolides, the daily dose is 500-1000 mg divided into 3-4 doses 1-1.5 hours before meals. The drug is available in tablets or capsules of 0.1, 0.25 and 0.5 g. Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and liver dysfunction. The drug is contraindicated in case of individual intolerance, liver diseases with impaired liver function. It should be borne in mind that erythromycin is inactivated by dairy products and acidic drinks, and also increases blood levels and enhances the toxic effect of carbamazepine (tegretol, finlepsin) and theophylline.

Clindamycin (lincomycin group) is prescribed in a daily dose of 0.6 g, divided into 2 doses, available in capsules of 0.15 g and under the name Dalacin C - 0.15 and 0.3 g. The course of treatment is 7–10 days. Possible side effects include dyspepsia (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), liver dysfunction. The drug is incompatible with erythromycin and B vitamins. Lincomycin is prescribed in a daily dose of 1500–2000 mg (2 tablets 3–4 times a day), available in capsules of 0.25 g. The duration of treatment and side effects are similar to clindamycin.

Josamycin or vilprafen in a daily dose of 1000 mg (1 tablet 2 times a day between meals) is used for 2–4 weeks, then 1 tablet. within 8 weeks. Possible side effects include dyspepsia (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), liver dysfunction. The drug is incompatible with lincomycin and weakens the effect of hormonal contraceptives.

If antibiotics are intolerant, they resort to sulfonamide drugs, usually co-trimoxazole (Biseptol, Septrin, Groseptol, Cotripharm 480). The drug is prescribed 480-960 mg (1-2 tablets) 2 times a day during or after meals with an interval of 12 hours. During treatment, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids, monitor the condition of the blood and urine, avoid solar and ultraviolet irradiation, and do not prescribe ascorbic acid.

It is logical to assume that local use of the above antibiotics may be much more effective and safer than internal use. However, research shows that topical application of erythromycin, clindamycin and tetracycline is effective only for mild acne, especially in combination with zinc, retinoids or benzoyl peroxide. External use of 1% erythromycin ointment (Ung. Erythromycini 1%) has a positive effect only in combination with other external and internal agents; gel with clindamycin Dalacin T (Pharmacia, USA) is more effective. Easy to use Eryderm (Abbott Labor, USA) – 2% solution of erythromycin. Levomycetinic, boric, and resorcinol alcohols are also used to dry and cauterize individual rashes. Combination preparations that are effective are Zinerit (Yamanouchi, Netherlands) - a solution of erythromycin and zinc acetate and Benzamycin, gel for external use, in 20 g tubes (Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, USA), containing 3% erythromycin and 5% benzoyl peroxide. All of the above drugs are prescribed 2 times a day. Like antibiotics prescribed orally, external medications tend to cause the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of microorganisms, so their repeated prescription is often ineffective. Resistance of Propionibacterium acnes strains (the main microorganism that multiplies in the sebaceous glands of patients) to commonly used antibiotics was found in 60% of patients. Increased resistance depends on the duration of therapy; resistance to erythromycin develops more often.

Other antiseptics and disinfectants. One of the successful modern approaches to treatment is the use of benzoyl peroxide, a lipophilic compound due to the presence of a benzoic acid residue in its composition. Benzoyl peroxide applied to the skin breaks down under the influence of air into peroxide and inactive benzoic acid, which remains on the surface of the skin. Active oxygen compounds damage the walls of bacteria, destroying them, and the content of fatty acids decreases, which prevents inflammation. At the same time, the same compounds also have a damaging effect on the horny scales, which is clinically expressed by peeling of the skin that accompanies the therapeutic effect. Benzoyl peroxide preparations have no effect on comedones, so they are not used if they predominate. Various companies offer this drug under the names Benzacne (Polfa, Poland), Desquam (Bristol-Myers, USA), Oxy 5 and Oxy 10 (SmithKline Beecham, UK), Baziron (Galderma, France). Benzoyl peroxide is available in the form of 2%, 5%, and 10% gel, 5% and 10% lotion. Treatment begins with applying a lower concentration of the drug to the face, then it is increased. A higher concentration is immediately applied to the back and chest. Benzoyl peroxide is applied to previously cleansed skin once a day. Side effects include an exacerbation reaction in the first days of use, dryness and flaking of the skin, discoloration of hair and linen when the drug comes into contact with them. Intolerance is common, so before starting treatment it is recommended to conduct a skin test - the drug is applied to a small area of skin on the flexor surface of the forearm for 48 hours. If there is no itching or redness, you can apply the drug to your face.

A combination of topical application of benzoyl peroxide in the morning and Retinoic ointment in the evening has a good effect, especially in the presence of comedones.

Azelaic acid inhibits the growth of microorganisms and reduces the content of free fatty acids on the skin surface. Skinoren cream or gel (“Schering”, Germany), containing 20% and 15% azelaic acid, respectively, is applied to the facial skin (both affected and rash-free areas) 2 times a day. When used, local skin irritation is possible. Skinoren is used in the complex treatment of acne; using it as an independent remedy usually does not bring success.

Zinc hyaluronate is part of the Curiosin gel (Gedeon Richter, Hungary), has a healing and antimicrobial effect. It can be used for a small number of rashes, since the effectiveness of the drug is low. The gel is applied to cleansed skin twice a day; a burning sensation and redness of the skin at the application sites are possible.

Povidone-iodine (Betadine) is used to lubricate pustules in a concentrated (10%) or diluted 1:1 solution with water 1-2 times a day. It is undesirable to use in fair-skinned and red-haired patients due to increased sensitivity to iodine. The diluted solution cannot be stored.

For a small number of comedones in the initial stage of the disease, salicylic alcohol 2–3% is effective. It is used 2 times a day, being careful not to apply to the entire affected area to avoid drying it out, but only to individual areas.

Sulfur is an anti-inflammatory agent; it is included as one of the components in most external agents (ointments and mash) traditionally used in the treatment of acne. However, in recent years, its comedogenic effect has been discovered, i.e. it can cause the formation of comedones.

Hormone therapy

Sex hormone therapy is only possible for women. Estrogens (ethinyl estradiol) and antiandrogens (cyproterone acetate, spironolactone) can be used for treatment. Estrogens reduce the secretion of the sebaceous glands, although not as significantly as retinoids. They can be used simultaneously with topical retinoic acid, antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide, which increases the therapeutic effect. To achieve a good result, estrogens must be given for a long time - at least 5 cycles. The first signs of improvement are noticeable only towards the end of the second or third cycle. Estrogen has many side effects - nausea, fluid retention in the body, swelling of the legs, weight gain, breast tenderness, skin pigmentation, increased risk of vascular thrombosis. Risk factors for side effects include smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and vascular diseases. Cyproterone acetate for the treatment of acne is used only in combination with estrogens. Of the combination drugs, Diane-35 and Janine (Schering, Germany) are used. The drug is prescribed 1 tablet per day, starting from the first day of the cycle, for 21 days with a break of 7 days. The antiandrogenic drug Cyproterone or Androcur (“Schering”, Germany) is prescribed 1 tablet (10 mg) per day, starting from the first day of the cycle for 15 days, a new course begins 4 weeks after the start of the first. Glucocorticosteroid drugs are prescribed orally or parenterally only for abscess and fulminant acne, which is extremely rare. External use of corticosteroid ointments is not indicated.

Drugs of other groups

Zincteral (Polfa, Poland) contains zinc sulfate, a deficiency of which is often found in patients with acne. Tablets of 0.124 g are prescribed 1-2 times a day during or immediately after meals for 1-2 months. There may be nausea in the first week of use. The drug enhances the effect of retinoids, but weakens the effect of tetracyclines. Homeopathic treatments include injections of Cutis compositum or Traumeel (Heel, Germany). Herbal medicine is still widely used as an auxiliary means - applications of badyagi pulp for resorption of individual large nodes, lotions with green tea, calamus rhizome, raspberry shoots. Infusions of plants with estrogenic effects (hop cones, sage leaves) are prescribed internally.

Skin care

Many patients, feeling the increased sebum secretion characteristic of acne, try to wash their face as often as possible using soap and a sponge. At the same time, the skin dries out, but sebum secretion does not become significantly lower, since fat is washed out only from the surface of the skin, without affecting the sebaceous glands themselves, located in its depths. In this regard, frequent washing of the skin (no more than once a day), or the use of sponges and washcloths is not recommended to avoid irritation and injury. Many people now use antimicrobial soap. But it changes the state of the microbial flora only on the surface of the skin and does not have a significant effect on the course of the disease. At the same time, antimicrobial additives contained in soap can cause irritation or allergic reactions. To cleanse the skin, it is better to use soft neutral soap for sensitive skin or special cosmetics intended for this purpose (cleansing with milk, then tonic), and to eliminate the shine of the face associated with the release of sebum to the surface, use cosmetic wipes or special mattifying wipes facilities. The widely held belief that decorative cosmetics should not be used for acne has also now been revised. Modern high-quality cosmetics that do not irritate the skin, mask existing defects well, do not significantly disturb sweating, and are not applied to the skin in a thick layer and can be used during the day. It should be removed at home. Some medications require the use of sunscreen. It is better to prefer gels and milk, and also be sure to quickly remove them from the skin indoors. Scrubs and peels may be recommended to smooth the surface of the skin and give it freshness, but are contraindicated during treatment with retinoids, benzoyl peroxide and tetracyclines.

The use of therapeutic masks with a drying effect and detergents is limited during treatment with retinoids and alcohol solutions. If there are pustules on the skin and severe inflammation, massage and cosmetic cleansing of the skin are contraindicated.

Diet

Both in the past and now, most dermatologists always recommend following a fairly strict diet. Our long-term observations have shown that the benefit of such restrictions is small, and only in a few patients there is a clear connection between eating certain foods (mainly chocolate) and increasing rashes. We usually recommend that patients adhere to a reasonable diet, without excesses, and include more fermented milk products and greens in their diet. However, 2-3 days of fasting during an exacerbation always gives a positive result. In general, when prescribing modern therapeutic agents, there is no need to follow any diet to achieve a good result. If the patient is to take part in a festive feast, it is better to stop taking oral medications for 2-3 days and prescribe enterosorbents (Polyphepan, Enterosgel, etc.).

Our recommendations for treating acne

Initial stage - a few small black dots appear on the nose and forehead (usually in children) - Salicylic alcohol, Retinoic ointment, Skinoren, medicinal cosmetics.
The same, but for significantly oily skin - Retinoic ointment, Salicylic alcohol.
Numerous black spots and individual inflammatory nodules and pustules - Retinoic ointment, Salicylic alcohol, on pustules - alcohols with antibiotics, Dalatsin T, Povidone-iodine.
The predominance of inflammation with a small number of comedones - Retinoids (Retinoic ointment, Retasol®), benzoyl peroxide (Benzacne, Desquam, Oxy 5 and Oxy 10, Baziron), external preparations with antibiotics (Dalacin T, Zinerit, Eriderm, Benzamycin).
The predominance of pustules in a common process (face, back, chest) - antibiotics, in some cases - retinoids internally (Roaccutane, Retinol palmitate), externally - benzoyl peroxide, disinfectants.
Individual large painful ulcers on the face - antibiotics, externally - antibiotic ointments and benzoyl peroxide.

Seborrhea and seborrheic dermatitis

In recent years, what was previously united by one term “seborrhea” has begun to be divided into 2 concepts – seborrhea of the head and seborrheic dermatitis (damage to smooth skin).

Seborrheic dermatitis

– chronic inflammatory skin disease. It affects 1-3% of adults (mostly men). Seborrheic dermatitis, along with acne, is a disorder of sebum secretion. Indeed, both diseases are often combined in the same person and affect the same areas of the skin - the so-called “seborrheic zones” - the face, chest (décolleté area) and the middle part of the back along the spine (interscapular region), where the largest sebaceous glands with wide ducts that secrete large amounts of sebum. Sebaceous glands of this type actively develop and increase in size during puberty. The composition of sebum also changes, it becomes more viscous, the components it contains contribute to increased keratinization, which corresponds to peeling visible to the eye. Smaller glands, but also secreting large amounts of sebum, are located on the scalp. Their purpose is to provide fat lubrication to the hair and make it invulnerable to external influences. These glands also become more active during puberty. In adolescents and adults, the mildest form of seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by flaking of the skin and its excess oiliness without inflammation - on the scalp it is dandruff, and on the face and chest - accumulations of fatty scales in the skin folds - near the wings of the nose, in the nasolabial fold, on the bridge of the nose , less often - on the chest and back. Fatty scales soaked in sebum serve as a good breeding ground for the development of lipophilic fungi Malassezia furfur or Pityrosporum ovale. In turn, the immune system reacts to them with the development of allergic dermatitis, the disease enters its second, more unpleasant phase, and is no longer limited to mild manifestations. Itching, burning, at first mild, then more intense redness of the skin, severe peeling, and hair loss appear. The manifestations of the disease are aggravated by the patients themselves - constant scratching, attempts to remove crusts, remove accumulations of scales from the hair, the use of “folk” remedies, and the most powerful ones, inevitably lead to increased redness, the appearance of scratches and wounds, the proliferation of other microbes, and the development of complications of the pustular process. It is usually in this condition that patients turn to a dermatologist, although everything could have been corrected much earlier.

For any manifestation of the disease, you should pay attention to your diet. Sometimes its correction is enough to prevent further development of the disease. Alcohol, sweets and starchy foods should be limited, regardless of the type of food. For itching and inflammation, smoked, salted, pickled foods, spicy seasonings, strong broths, instant coffee, citrus fruits, kiwi, pineapples and juices from them are also temporarily limited.

Treatment depends on the stage of development and clinical picture of the disease. If dandruff appears without inflammation, you can limit yourself to only external treatment; in more serious cases, internal treatment is also necessary. External treatment includes keratolytic, glucocorticosteroid, antiseptic, disinfectant and antifungal agents. Antifungal drugs are usually the starting point for treatment and can be used long-term without the risk of side effects. Various dosage forms are used - creams, gels, shampoos. Shampoos with antifungal substances - Nizoral, Keto-plus, Perhotal, Mycozoral, Sebozol contain 1-2% ketoconazole. Ti/Jel anti-dandruff shampoo contains 0.75% piroctone olamine and 2% salicylic acid. Creams and gels are applied 2 times a day, shampoos - 3 times a week. Various other medicinal substances that also have antifungal properties include zinc pyrithioneate, tar, sulfur, resorcinol and selenium disulfide. Medicines containing these compounds are available in the form of shampoos for the treatment of dandruff (Friderm-tar, Ti/Jel-Newtar, Friderm-zinc) and ointments for the treatment of smooth skin lesions (Skin-cap, birch tar, tar and sulfur-tar ointments ). Prescription forms are also used: Vidal milk, alcohol solutions with sulfur, boric acid, tar. After hair treatment, it is necessary to change combs, hair brushes, and hats.

For severe inflammation, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and disinfectants are used. For weeping and severe swelling of the lesions, lotions with resorcinol 1% and herbal decoctions are used. The crusts are usually lubricated with alcohol solutions (salicylic, resorcinol, boric alcohols). Corticosteroids have a rapid anti-inflammatory effect - they are used on the head in the form of solutions - Elokom, Diprosalik (Schering-Plough USA), Lokoid (Janssen-Cilag Belgium), Belosalik (Belupo, Croatia), on seborrheic areas - in the form of ointments and creams - Elokom, Diprosalik, Belosalik, Hydrocortisone ointment. It should be noted that on the skin of the face, which is much thinner than in other areas, only non-fluorinated glucocorticosteroids can be used in the form of easily absorbed creams and emulsions (Advantan emulsion, Elokom cream, Lokoid cream) or weak (Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone) ointments. Drugs in this group are not suitable for long-term use due to the risk of undesirable effects - thinning of the skin, dilation of blood vessels, appearance or worsening of acne. When it is possible to relieve acute inflammation (usually in 3-5 days), and with residual peeling, they are replaced by drugs containing vitamin A - emulsion-based ointments Videstim®, Radevit® (FNPP “Retinoids”, Russia). It is known that vitamin A (retinol palmitate) reduces sebum secretion by reducing the size of the sebaceous glands and keratinization, and also has the properties of a local immunomodulator. Videstim® contains 0.5% retinol palmitate on an emulsion basis, Radevit® - 1% retinol palmitate, ergocalciferol and tocopherol acetate (vitamins A, D and E). The drugs are used for a long time, including for the purpose of preventing relapses. In recent years, the local immunomodulator pimecrolimus, supplied to Russia under the name Elidel, has also been used in treatment. Keratolytic agents are used for severe peeling and crusting. Apply sulfur-salicylic ointment 2-5% 1.5-2 hours before washing hair under a scarf, on the face - 1 hour before washing, 10% ointment with urea Carboderm (Ukraine). A particularly good effect is brought by combination drugs that combine the keratolytic properties of salicylic acid and anti-inflammatory glucocorticosteroids - Diprosalik, Belosalik. Internal remedies include vitamin A (retinol palmitate) in a daily dose of 100,000–200,000 IU (once at night for 2 months), B vitamins, in particular brewer’s yeast (Merz Germany and domestic companies), brewer’s yeast with the addition of zinc and selenium Nagipol, multivitamin-mineral complexes, preparations with selenium (Selevit, Triovit), zinc (Zincteral). To reduce sebum production in women, hormone therapy (Diane-35, Janine) and antiandrogens (Androcur) are used - see above. Despite successful therapy, the disease often recurs. A rational approach to diet and careful selection of skin and hair care products are necessary to maintain a favorable treatment result for as long as possible.

prof.
IN AND. Albanova Print

How to deal with oily skin. What consequences does it lead to?

In the absence of proper care for oily skin, a pathological process occurs, against the background of which the composition of the sebaceous secretion changes. Subsequently, the bactericidal and antiseptic properties of the water-fat film are reduced, which leads to the development of diseases such as rosacea, acne, milia, and seborrheic dermatitis on the face.

Acne is one of the most terrible consequences of improper care for oily skin.

Oily facial seborrhea

It often occurs in adolescence, when the natural balance of hormones in the body is disrupted as a result of puberty. Typically, elevated testosterone levels lead to such consequences. In adulthood, seborrhea can be observed in people with disrupted hormonal levels, gastrointestinal tract problems, and liver problems.

Due to disruptions in the functioning of the endocrine system, active production of sebum occurs, a characteristic shine of the face appears and, ultimately, inflamed pustular elements are formed. Over time, excess accumulation of secretion turns into cysts, forming atheromas - formations that arise as a result of blockage of the ducts of the sebaceous gland.

Oily facial seborrhea affects 6 to 8% of the world's population.

At an advanced stage of the disease, bloody crusts form, which are much more difficult to respond to drug therapy. Timely diagnosis and competent treatment by a specialist will help avoid subsequent complications in the form of seborrheic dermatitis.

Blackheads and enlarged pores

Unlike acne and oily shine, blackheads are familiar not only to those with oily skin types. Such open comedones can form even on dry skin. They arise due to blockage of pores by keratinized epidermal cells and sebum. When exposed to oxygen, the secretion turns black and the skin appears dirty. Read how to get rid of blackheads on your face here.

The situation is aggravated by environmental pollution, as well as the constant use of concealer foundations.

The main place where enlarged pores accumulate is the T-zone, where the most active production of sebaceous glands occurs.

Milia

These dense bumps form under the skin and are yellowish-white in color. Most often they occur in people predisposed to hyperkeratosis - increased keratinization of epithelial cells.

The localization of whiteheads is the area around the eyes, nose and mouth, and the causes of such inflammation are hormonal imbalance, diseases of the thyroid gland and gastrointestinal tract.

Most often, milia can be seen under the eyes, on the eyelids, and cheeks.

You can avoid the occurrence of milia by regularly cleansing the skin of the stratum corneum of the epidermis. To do this, use cosmetics with an exfoliating effect, which contain acids or small abrasive particles. Face cleansing masks are described here.

Acne

The occurrence of acne is influenced by the same factors as the increase in the amount of sebum. Acne and pustular elements appear as a result of a genetic predisposition caused by hormonal imbalances, consumption of junk food, and lack of proper care for oily and problematic skin.

There are 3 forms of acne. At the initial stage, closed and open comedones are observed, which are classified more as cosmetic imperfections.

At an advanced stage of the disease, a second form of acne develops, characterized by more pronounced damage to the skin. As a result, scars form on the inflamed areas, which cannot be removed without surgery.

Types of acne.

Spider veins

Telangiectasia occurs as a result of disruption of the circulatory process in the superficial layers of the epidermis, against which rosacea develops. Noticeable “veins” and enlarged capillaries appear on the skin, which are colloquially called spider veins.

Improper blood supply to cells is caused by constant blockage of the ducts of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles.

Often it is women who are susceptible to this disease, since the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels is influenced by the female hormone estrogen.

Reasons for enlarged pores

How to disguise large pores on your face? A pore is a valve through which the skin can breathe. Pores are also responsible for the appearance of the skin, immunity, and metabolic processes.

Each pore has a hair follicle, which allows the secretion of the sebaceous glands, microhairs, to break through to the surface. When pores become clogged, blackheads and comedones appear. They make it impossible to ensure normal lipid metabolism of cells, and this provokes acne and inflammation. We can say the following - the wider the pores, the greater the production of sebum. There will be a secretion inside the pores, and this is fraught with pustular formations and inflammation.

Products for oily facial skin in men. How to cleanse oily skin?

Men need to wash their face twice a day, using special products that match the type of epidermis. If men have oily facial skin, it is recommended to use the following cleansers:

gels Used after waking up and when washing your face in the evening. The product is applied with light rubbing, then completely washed off with cool water;
The toner is used after each cleansing and applied to clean, dry epidermis with a cotton pad. The product does not need to be washed off. After using the toner, apply a nourishing or moisturizing cream;
The scrub for problematic epidermis is used every week.

You can use special soap for oily facial skin for men. For clogged pores and blackheads, the following types of soap are usually used:

tar. This type of soap has an anti-inflammatory effect and regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Using tar soap allows you to restore the damaged surface of the epidermis, eliminates inflammation, and improves blood flow. After using tar-based soap to cleanse your face, you must apply a nourishing cream to your face, otherwise the skin will become dry;
laundry soap has an antiseptic and antibacterial effect. But, frequent use of laundry soap leads to drying of the epidermis.

Tar and laundry soap are considered safe cleaning agents due to their natural composition. With these products you can effectively cleanse oily skin, get rid of acne, blackheads and prevent inflammation on the face.

I recommend

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Skin problems in men. Ways to solve the problem

How can a man get rid of oily facial skin? Experts recommend that men facing the problem of increased fat content first of all adjust their diet, namely, minimize the consumption of carbohydrates and sugar. By reducing your intake of foods rich in sugars and carbohydrates, you can significantly improve your skin condition. It is important that the diet is balanced and selected taking into account all the characteristics of a particular person.

Smoking is also one of the factors that negatively affects skin condition. Everyone knows that nicotine has a detrimental effect on health, and it also has a negative effect on the skin of the face. Under its influence, the pores become wide and become clogged much faster with sebaceous plugs, under which a variety of microbes thrive, causing inflammation and suppuration.

Unfortunately, in most cases, the deterioration of oily skin in men is caused by a banal failure to comply with basic hygiene rules. All people accumulate sebum, dust, sweat and dirt on their face throughout the day, which is invisible to the eye, but still floats in the air. This “nuclear mixture” completely fills the pores over time, causing inflammation.

If you do not cleanse your skin regularly, touch your face with your hands and do not follow basic hygiene rules, it will be almost impossible to get rid of oily skin and the problems that accompany it. Therefore, you need to accept the fact that not only women, but also men need to wash their face at least in the morning and evening, plus a daily shower.

After any physical activity, be it working out in the gym, cultivating the garden, or carrying furniture while moving, you should at least wash your face to remove sweat and oil and prevent dirt from clogging your pores.

Causes of excess fat

Why do men's facial skin become oily? This occurs due to the production of a secretion by the sebaceous glands, which plays an important role in protecting our skin from external factors. In addition, the fatty film on the skin is very important for thermoregulation, because it is thanks to it that during the heat the sweat released does not flow down the face in drops, but is evenly distributed over the surface of the skin and, evaporating, helps the body cool. The fat layer also prevents the skin from drying out and protects the body from ultraviolet radiation.

Experienced specialists call heredity the main factor in the excessive increase in the activity of the sebaceous glands, since in most cases, if one of the parents encountered this problem in their youth, then it can also occur in children.

Dermatologists also consider unbalanced nutrition, incorrectly selected care and general unsatisfactory state of human health to be probable reasons for the presence of excessively oily skin in men (as well as in women). Lack of fluids drunk during the day can also provoke the development of such a problem as oily facial skin in men. Only a doctor can determine the causes of this problem, so consultation with a specialist is a mandatory step in getting rid of it.