Acne is one of the most common skin conditions that affects not only teenagers but kids and adults as well. It is characterized by small red bumps often seen on the face, neck, chest and back. This skin condition occurs when your hair follicles are clogged with dead skin cells, and oil.
Though there are a lot of effective treatments available, acne can be persistent and may need some serious treatment.
Acne Causes
The main cause of acne is unknown. However, there are several factors that contributes to the formation of acne.
1. Excess Oil Production- Oil is produced on a regular basis to keep the skin supple. However, when too much oil is produced, the skin won’t be able to cope up with the production and this usually lead to clogged pores.
2. Clogged Pores- Dead skin cells and excess oil can clog the pores.
3. Bacteria- The p.acnes bacteria is part of the natural skin flora and is present on most healthy skin. However, overgrowth of this bacteria can lead to acne.
4. Androgens- Androgen is a commonly known as a male sex hormone but women also produce androgens. Androgens stimulates skin growth and oil production. High levels of androgens can also lead to acne.
Acne Symptoms
Acne signs and symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the skin condition. Some will just have a few bumps while others may experience large solid papules and pustules.
1. Blackheads- Blackheads are formed when the pores are open but is clogged with dead skin cells and oil.
2. Whiteheads- Whiteheads are formed when the pores are closed but is clogged with dirt and oil.
3. Pimples- Pimples or pustules are formed when the body’s immune system sends out white blood cells to combat infection. Pus is formed near or on the surface of your skin.
4. Nodules- Nodules are large painful lumps found underneath your skin. It is much deeper compared to whiteheads and blackheads and can’t be cleared up using regular over the counter acne products alone.
5. Cystic Lesions- Cystic acne is characterized by cystic lesions that are formed underneath the skin. These pus-filled lumps are deep and are very painful.
Acne Treatments
Acne treatments vary depending on the severity of the condition. There are a lot of over the counter acne treatments that can be used to treat simple acne cases. However, for nodular, cystic and hormonal acne, you may need a doctor prescribed acne treatment to manage this skin condition. Your doctor may prescribe retinol, antibiotics, salicylic acid, oral contraceptives with estrogen for hormonal acne or anti-androgen agents.
Aside from oral and topical medications, there are also therapies that may be helpful to treat acne. This includes chemical peels, steroid injections and laser treatments.
