A new study suggests people with such skin types tend to age more slowly. Experts give their take
As far as skin issues go, there’s nothing worse than battling acne. Especially when a bunch of pimples crop up just before a big event and then leave behind unsightly marks. Acne is not just a teenage problem and for many, it continues long into their adult years. But while most have cribbed about the condition, there may be good news for acne sufferers. New research from King’s College London, based on 1,205 female twins, suggests adolescents with spots tend to stay looking youthful for longer, compared to those with ‘perfect skin’. They claim this is because people with acne have a built-in protection against ageing. This is due to telomeres which are referred to as “caps” at the ends of our DNA strands. They get shorter as we get older, which contributes to cell ageing but those with acne seem to have longer telomeres in their white blood cells.
Oily skin more moisturised
Dr Madhuri Agarwal, founder and medical director of Yavana Aesthetics Clinic, feels to some extent oily skin is seen to age slower than dry skin and have less early, fine wrinkling as compared to dry skin. “This is because oily skin has more oils and fats that keep the skin moisturised and hydrated, so signs of ageing are not very prominently seen. The sebum or oil content in our skin has antioxidants such as Vitamin E that protects the skin from sun damage and pollution effects to some extent. Due to the antioxidant properties, oily skin also has less of the inflammation process that triggers early signs of ageing in skin. However, it is not always the case. Since oily skin is thicker, it tends to show larger pores and deeper lines which are also signs of ageing,” she adds.
Scars sign of ageing
Dr Narmada Matang, dermatologist, Neo skin and cosmetic clinic, says she doesn’t completely agree with this, because if the skin is acne prone and heals with scars it would in fact make the skin look more matured than otherwise. “Dry skin will show the fine lines and wrinkles much earlier, dryness also leads to dullness and sun exposure will add to the damage. As the skin matures it tends to become dry and hence I suggest the use of moisturisers which are multitasking and protecting. Blemishes or post inflammatory marks are a common consequence of acne. If acne treatment is not started in time these can develop into scars which are depressions in the skin and need separate treatment later,” she says.
Genes at play
Acne prone skin is normally oily in nature, that is the sebum (oil) production is more compared to rest of the skin types, so the moisture content in the skin is maintained, but apart from this there are many theories which are still being studied, explains Dr Soma Sarkar, Medical Director and Dermatologist, Skin Inn. “Like genetic factor there is a p53 gene pathway which is less expressed in acne patients, this gene pathway is responsible for programmed cell death. Also, the telomere length in the white blood cell of acne patients are longer so they don’t break while replicating and add to the life of the cell thus increasing the longevity of the skin. Acne skin looks very uneven due to the presence of whiteheads and blackheads. Then sometimes one can have redness, swelling and pain too. Acne can leave ugly marks and pits on the face if not treated timely. It directly effects the patient’s confidence level.”
Treat your acne
Dr K E Mukadam, dermatologist and laser Surgeon, Lasercure says he doesn’t completely agree with the study. “ Acne occurs when the sebaceous (oil) glands come to life — the glands are stimulated by male hormones produced by the adrenal glands of both males and females. Studies show that no specific food has been proven to cause acne. Every individual is different, though. Some may notice their breakouts are worse after eating certain foods. Although washing your face helps to remove dirt and oil from your pores, washing too much can lead to dryness and irritation, causing more breakouts. Avoid scrubbing your face. Wash your face two to three times a day with a cleansing gel. If over-the-counter acne medication doesn’t seem to work on your acne, it’s a good idea to talk to your dermatologist,” he says.
CELEBS WHO SUFFER FROM ACNE
Cameron Diaz
The actress tried all sorts of medication to get rid of it
Kendall Jenner
The model said acne ruined her self esteem and now uses a DIY cream
Kate Winslet
The actress got cystic acne post turning 30
Keira Knightley
The actress has admitted to being self-conscious about her skin
Salma Hayek
The actress said her acne got so bad that she fell into a depression
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