Live Life Team
Acne is condition of the skin affecting follicles of hair and sebaceous glands in the skin. It normally occurs on the arms, face, back and chest. It usually starts during puberty between 13 and 18 years of age. Due to hormonal changes resulting in increased level of sebum secreted by the sebaceous skin glands.
Symptoms of acne
These spots appear where the sebaceous glands are more in number, mostly on the face. But it can be seen on arms, back, chest and even on buttocks.
Acne may be categorized as:
Blackheads
Whiteheads
Pustules
Nodules
Causes of acne
Acne in puberty is caused due to the increases sensitivity to testosterone thereby increasing the sebum secretion. Acne can also be due to:
Genetic problems
Stress
In girls, during the onset of menstrual cycle.
Excess production of androgen due to polycystic ovaries
Use of anti-epileptic drugs as well as oral contraceptives
Use of anabolic steroids
Exposure to dioxins result in chloracne
Diagnosis of acne
The doctor diagnoses the condition by examining the spots on the face, skin and other places where the spots are there. The severity of the condition will be understood depending on the number of spots and the pain on the spots.
Treatment of acne
The treatment is determined by the severity of the scne.
Gels, lotions and creams can be use to mild non-inflammatory blackheads and whiteheads. These can be retinoids, adapalene or benzoyl peroxide.
Benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid or topical antibiotics like clindamycin that fights bacteria and reduce inflammation can be used for mild to acne with moderate inflammation.
Low-dose oral antibiotic tetracycline or erythromycin can be used for treating moderate acne to reduce the number of bacteria, sebum production and inflammation. It may be even eight weeks for noticeable improvement and treatment must be taken for at least six months.
A high oestrogen contraceptive pill helps regulating hormones that cause excess sebum production in women.
In case of severe acnes, consult a physician. The treatment also helps in improving psychological issues related to acnes.
Complications due to acne
If the treatment is begun at an early stage, permanent scars can be prevented. Picking or squeezing spots will only increase it.
Acne can also result in psychological problem like anxiety and depression.
Prevention of acne
Acne is neither caused by poor hygiene nor is it infectious. But if there is a build-up of dead cells and sebum on the surface of the skin, it will cause the blocking of follicles and multiplying of bacteria. Wash the face with a good cleanser to prevent this.
No proof has been collected to say that make-up causes acne, but care must be taken to wash it off as the dirt that will be stuck to it can help in the multiplying of bacteria.
Even though there is no evidence that chocolates and fried foods cause acne, try maintaining a healthy lifestyle to help your body function properly.
