When it comes to caring for our skin, popping pimples is a huge no-no. Although we are told we are not supposed to do it, we all pop our zits from time to time.

There is something so satisfying, addictive even, about getting the gunk out of our faces.

If you just can’t stop popping your own zits, these are some things dermatologists want you to keep in mind.

Pop the right pimple

First of all, the pimple you are trying to pop has to be ready. In essence, you are looking for a pimple with a white tip, known as a pustule, or more commonly, a whitehead.

If the pimple you are trying to pop is a deeper nodule (the firm, painful red kind), you should avoid it altogether.

The inflammation and debris and pus can spill underneath the skin when popped wrongly; that’s what leads to further inflammation, infection and even scarring.

Cleanliness is key

Next, you need to make sure the area and your hands are cleaned thoroughly.

According to the expert, if a pimple has a clear ‘whitehead’, then you can wash your hands and wash the area with soap and water and apply gentle pressure from both sides.

Use the right tools

It is advised that the right tools should be used if pimples must be popped.

Know when to stop

Another thing to keep in mind, however badly you want to push and press at your zits, is to be gentle.

When you actually pop your pimples, you want to just gently compress the area. You don’t want to squeeze too aggressively.

Preventive measures

According to Lamb, Isaac and the Palmisanos, the best and safest thing to do is to see a professional. You can also try topical treatments to help dry out your pimples, which may help mitigate the desire to pop them. These treatments should be used in small amounts, once or twice a day.

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Education

Get a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field.

The most beneficial undergraduate degree is one in pre-dentistry or a science. Degrees in science-related fields help you meet any prerequisites you will have when entering a dental school.

While in school, you should focus on getting good grades, learning as much as you can, and developing good study habits.

Apply for admission to a dental school. Most applicants apply to more than one dental school. You should only apply to dental schools that are accredited.

Complete coursework at a dental school

When you go to dental school, you will receive a doctorate degree. A standard programme is four years, which includes coursework and clinical. You can get a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD). These are the same degree.

You can also become a specialist, which will take a few years longer.

Take the required steps if you want to become a specialist.

After you finish dental school, you may decide that you want to do something more specialised than general dentistry.

If this is your wish, you will need to become a specialist. Becoming a specialist requires acceptance into a residency or postgraduate programme. Then, you will continue with postgraduate education for two to six years, depending on the specialty.

Pass your written Examination

After you complete your degree at an accredited school, you need to meet the requirements to get your license. In most places, this requires that you take exams after receiving your degree. Usually, one exam is a written test that tests your basic knowledge of the field.

Pass your clinical exams

These exams are clinical and require you to perform treatment on patients. If you plan to practise in your dental school’s state, then your dental school will often host the exam annually or semiannually.

Identifying the Specific Characteristics of a Dentist

Make sure you are hard working

If you are interested in becoming a dentist, you should learn what will be required of you in this profession. You will be responsible for providing people with dental care. You will have to administer local anesthetics, look at x-rays, and come up with a treatment plan for your patients.

You will also have to remove cavities and do fillings and give cleanings.

You may have to do some minor oral surgery, like root canals, or treat people with periodontal disease.

A dentist who runs their own practice may have to work more than 60 hours weekly early in their career.

Have good manual dexterity

Because dentists use their hands, often doing precision work in tiny, hard-to-reach areas, you will need to have outstanding manual dexterity.

Your fine motor skills are imperative to your success as a dentist. Working with your hands is an important part of your career.

To improve these skills, find a hobby that uses your hands and fingers. For example, you can play an instrument, draw and paint, make models, or play video games.

Make sure you have compassion

Most people who want to be dentists have a desire to help people. Dentists should have good bedside manner and genuinely want to interact with people. You need to be compassionate because many people who visit the dentist will be scared or have anxiety.

Develop your problem solving skills

Dentists need to have problem-solving skills. This helps you to figure out the best treatment for patients. Some patients may not be able to undergo the standard treatment procedure, so you have to be able to come up with alternatives.

Focus on time management

Dentists need to be able to manage their time so they can perform the needed procedures in a reasonable amount of time. Most dentists will see numerous patients each day and need to be as quick and efficient as possible.

Develop good leadership skills

No dentist works alone, and most dentists oversee a team of healthcare professionals. This means you will need to be a strong leader when you are a dentist.

Getting a Job

Volunteer in a dental office

Most dental schools want to see students who are well-rounded, with good grades and extracurricular activities. You can get some experience and improve your dental school application by finding volunteer work in a dental office.

Observe a dentist

During your studies, you will complete observations of dentists to learn more about what it is like to be a dentist and whether or not you want to be a dentist. You may also be able to shadow a dentist before you apply to a dental school to make sure it is the right fit for you.

The post Tips on how to become a Dentist appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Experts said Anger can lead to dangerous situations unless you learn to recognise and manage it.

Managing your anger

Follow the following points by experts

Your first reaction to anger may be to attack, hurt, destroy and defend!

• This can lead to hurting someone, or hurting yourself.
• It can lead to damage to property and making really bad choices that may lead to lasting problems in the future.

To manage anger safely you need self-awareness and selfcontrol.

• Self awareness is the ability to notice what you are feeling and thinking and to work out why. Teens can be self aware.
• Self control is about thinking before you act, and making a choice.

Stop and ask yourself why you are really angry.

• Is it because you are afraid?
• Do you feel you have been treated unfairly?
• Did someone say or do something that embarrassed you?
• Did something hurt your feelings?
• Did you feel a lack of respect for you and your needs?
• Does it remind you of another experience where you were hurt?

The steps to managing anger

Work out why you are angry – put it into words so you can act rather than react –

   Think of possible options before you act.

• Maybe you could yell and shout – but would it be helpful?
• Maybe you cheat

 Make a decision about which one of your options is the best choice, and act.

• Use a quiet voice to tell what you are feeling
• If anger becomes too much then walk away until you are back in control.

Think about whether this worked and why. Would you do the same again.

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Mental health awareness has become an increasingly critical topic, drawing much-needed attention in recent years. It involves understanding and recognising mental health issues, their profound impact on individuals, and the importance of seeking timely help and support. Raising awareness is essential for breaking the stigma, fostering empathy, and encouraging people to take their mental well-being seriously.

A key aim of mental health awareness is educating the public about various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. By providing this education, individuals can better recognise symptoms in themselves or others, paving the way for early intervention. It is vital to acknowledge that mental health is as important as physical health, and doing so creates a more compassionate and inclusive environment.

Another crucial element of mental health awareness is promoting the availability of resources and support systems for those grappling with mental health challenges. These resources include therapy, counselling, and support groups, all of which are essential for recovery and well-being. Highlighting these avenues of support empowers individuals to seek help without the fear of judgment or social stigma.

Furthermore, mental health awareness initiatives often emphasise the importance of self-care and effective coping strategies. Practices such as mindfulness, regular physical activity, and open communication play a significant role in managing stress and improving overall mental health. By encouraging these healthy habits, we help individuals cultivate resilience and a positive approach to life’s challenges.

In conclusion, promoting mental health awareness is vital for fostering understanding, dismantling stigma, and increasing access to support systems. Prioritising mental well-being can lead to a more compassionate, supportive society where everyone feels seen, heard, and understood.

Kaddy is of Premier International School, Wuse 2, Abuja

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There are a number of possible causes for a stomach ache, ranging from eating the wrong food to more serious health concerns such as appendicitis.

Given that frequent stomach aches can be a sign of a serious medical problem, it is important to know how to find relief as well as when you need to contact your physician.

Causes of stomach pain or ache

Stomach pain in children is very often caused by excessive gas and indigestion, neither of which is serious.

 A sore tummy might also be a sign of infections like food poisoning, pneumonia or urinary tract infections

 Anxiety or stress can cause ‘butterflies’ in the tummy.

 Severe stomach pain might be caused by more serious or surgical illnesses like appendicitis or intussusception, which is when part of the gut slides into or over itself.

 Tummy pain that keeps coming back might be associated with constipation, food intolerance or inflammation in the gut.

 In adolescent girls, stomach pain can have several gynecological causes, including a twisted ovary and period pain.

 Sometimes doctors won’t be able to work out what’s causing your sore tummy. This is called functional abdominal pain. In these cases, nerve signals or chemicals might be making your gut more sensitive to normal triggers like gas. Or it could be stress or anxiety.

Symptoms related to stomach pain

 Stomach pain varies according to its specific cause.

 The symptoms that come with stomach pain might include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, constipation, bloating and loss of appetite. These also vary depending on the underlying cause of the stomach pain.

How to feel better

 Fortunately, for many stomach ailments, the prescription is simple; a better diet, more fluids and exercise.

 Eat a diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, proteins and complex carbohydrates.

    Cut back on caffeine, sugary drinks and fast foods.

    Avoid alcohol, drugs and cigarette smoking.

    Drink plenty of water.

    Stay physically active.

    Reduce stress by learning good coping skills.

    Take a probiotic.

The post Know what causes stomach ache appeared first on Teen Trust News.

The rate at which people undertake self-medication in our country today is alarming. People consume different drugs without even knowing its mode of action or margin of safety.

This has mostly resulted in dangerous health consequences and sometimes, untimely death. In Nigeria for example, drugs like cough syrup, pain killer and suppressants are mostly taken without due consultations with trained medical personnel.

Sometimes non pharmaceutical products are also consumed indiscriminately. This has to stop for us to have a healthy society.

Al-Amin is of Sheikh Abubakar Gummi Academy, Abuja

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What are the dangers of diphtheria?

The bacteria produce toxins that cause an abnormal membrane to grow in the throat, which can lead to suffocation. Other dangerous complications include paralysis and heart failure if the toxins spread throughout the body. Around 10 per cent of people exposed to diphtheria die from the disease.

When the bacteria get into the respiratory system they can cause sore throat, mild fever, and swollen glands in the neck. The bacteria make a toxin that kills healthy tissues in the respiratory system and can make it difficult to breathe and swallow.

What is the main cause of diphtheria?

Diphtheria is an acute disease caused by toxin-producing strains of Corynebacterium diphtheriae (in some cases also by Corynebacterium ulcerans) bacteria, that is known to colonise mucous membranes.

How to avoid diphtheria?

Widespread immunisation against diphtheria is the only effective control. The diphtheria vaccine is administered through the National Immunisation ProgramME. The first dose of diphtheria vaccine, in combination with other vaccines, is now recommended to be given at 6 weeks of age.

What is the best treatment for diphtheria?

Antibiotics, such as penicillin or erythromycin, help kill bacteria in the body, clearing up infections. Antibiotics lessen the time that someone with diphtheria is contagious. An antitoxin. If a doctor suspects diphtheria, he or she will request a medication that counteracts the diphtheria toxin in the body.

If it’s left untreated, it can cause severe damage to your kidneys, nervous system, and heart. It’s fatal in about 3 percent of cases.

The post What you should know about Diphtheria appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Teens should also avoid harsh scrubbing, which can irritate the skin and cause breakouts.

An oil-free, non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) foaming cleanser containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, is a good choice for teens prone to acne. As for skin of any age, daily use of a light moisturizes, without heavy perfumes or artificial colours is a good habit for teens.

The following dos and don’ts will help you maintain a good skin.

Do Cleanse your face morning and night (2 times), keep it simple so you avoid irritating your skin.

Exfoliate once a week with a washed cloth or a very gentle scrub. Do this in the shower.

Change your pillowcase every week, or two to three times a week. It helps to keep our skin from soaking up any dirt and oil that come from our hair.

At night, cleanse and use a toner. A moisturizer at night maybe a gel, make it simple with very simple ingredients.

Don’t Pick, scratch or peel a pimple

Before acne becomes a problem, act on it early. Don’t wait to see a dermatologist, and don’t be embarrassed about seeing an esthetician. It is what we do.

Assume you know what is best for your skin, follow the directions given to you by the professional.

Over-scrubbing and over-washing, as well as stripping the oil of our skin cause our skin to create 10 times more oil.

Lastly, ask a professional specific question and make sure you share your lifestyle. The pieces of the puzzle will fall into place and result in healthy skin and body.

The post Maintaining good skin as a teen appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Both peanut allergies and tree nut allergies are among the eight most common allergenic foods. Peanut allergies in particular are prevalent.

Addressing nut allergies

If you suspect that you may have a nut allergy, you should visit an allergist.

Testing for nut allergies

After your allergist takes a detailed history of your allergic experiences, including prior exposures and possible reactions, your allergist will likely run some tests to further understand your allergies. This will include blood tests and skin prick tests. In all cases, it is incredibly important that a detailed history precedes any testing because allergy tests can often have ‘false positives.

A skin test is administered by exposing your skin to a small amount of the allergen, pricking your skin with a needle, and then looking for reactions, such as raised bumps. Other possibilities include “oral food challenges,” where small, safe amounts of the allergen are fed to you in the allergist’s office, and you are monitored for reactions.

Treating nut allergies

Treating your nut allergies involves avoiding all ingestions of the nut you are allergic to. This is not as easy as it may sound, since peanut and tree nut ingredients are added to pre-packaged ingredients, baking mixes, and sauces. This means that you will become a very careful label reader if you develop a nut allergy.

Cross-contamination is also possible, so watch for warnings such as “product was manufactured on equipment shared with tree nuts or peanuts.”1

Preventing nut allergies

If nut allergies run in your family, or if you are concerned about a nut allergy, you may be wondering what you can do to prevent this from happening. While there is no surefire way of preventing food allergies (sometimes they just happen!), there is some evidence that getting introduced to allergens early in life can help.

If you suddenly show allergy symptoms soon after eating a peanut or tree nut, it’s understandable that you will feel worried, and maybe even panicky. Allergies are frightening, and no one wants to have the feeling or look unwell. If youare exhibiting symptoms that might indicate an allergic reaction, try not to panic, but also make sure to take the symptoms seriously.

If the symptoms appear mild, call your paediatrician’s office for advice or to make an appointment for further examination. If you are showing any signs of a severe reaction, trouble breathing, full body hives or swelling, extreme lethargy, vomiting, or signs of shock—do not hesitate to go to the nearest emergency room.

The post Nut allergy reactions appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Adopting a greener approach to life doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are some easy ways you can live greener while you are a student:

Take notes electronically

Thankfully, the world is now digitally focused and your studies can be, too. You’ll save money (and stop wasting paper) on purchasing notebooks and flashcards if you begin to electronically take down what you need to remember in class.

Adopt reusable bag practices

Take reusable bags to the store with you to the grocery shop instead of opting for paper or plastic. It’s wasteful and unnecessary, and several bags with every grocery trip can add up to a whole lot of garbage over a lifetime.

Zero bottled water

Reuse old water bottles or purchase water bottles that you can refill instead of tossing out a new bottle every time you need to quench your thirst.

Recycle

By now, this should be a no-brainer. When you’re able, recycle. Whether it’s paper products, plastics or upcycling old items, it’s important to think about which trash can be saved from a landfill.

Power Down

When you are not using appliances or you’re not in a room, turn off lights and other electronics. An easy way to implement this is by connecting your electronics to a surge protector and flipping the switch when you leave the room. Bonus: your electric bill will thank you!

Walk or Bike more

In addition to helping you live a healthier lifestyle, trying to cut down on driving can help the environment and save you a lot of gas money as well.

Use energy efficient light Bulbs

Try to switch your bulbs to energy-efficient compact fluorescent (CFLs) or LED bulbs. Though they may be a little more expensive, it’s worth it because they can last up to five times longer than regular light bulbs and are very bright so you won’t need to turn on as many lights.

Save Energy

Set your thermostats a few degrees lower or your air conditioner a few degrees higher. You probably won’t notice much of a difference, but the environment will.

Decrease meat consumption

Raising livestock produces large amounts of greenhouse gases into the environment. According to a United Nations report, “cattle-rearing generates more global warming greenhouse gases, as measured in CO2 equivalent, than transportation, and smarter production methods, including improved animal diets to reduce enteric fermentation and consequent methane emissions, are urgently needed.”

Think about your water usage

You can save water in your daily life by turning off water while brushing your teeth, washing your face or shaving. In addition, cutting down your shower time can save more water and make a bigger impact than you’d think. It’s estimated that, using an average number of 2.5 gallons per minute from the typical shower head, reducing your shower length by 4 minutes per day would save (assuming you shower every day, ahem) 3,650 gallons per year. Now that’s a lot of water saved for such a small sacrifice!

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