What is acne?
Acne is an inflammatory condition of the skin which causes blemishes most of the time on the face, back, shoulders, upper arms and chest. Blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, cysts, nodules are the different kinds of acne. Acne is most likely to occur at the time of puberty but adult acne is also a known entity. It is not a dangerous skin condition but it’s sequela- the scars and pigmentation can be
cumbersome to treat and can lead to low self-esteem in patients.
What are the causes of acne?
Acne is caused when the hair follicles are clogged with dead skin cells and oil from the sebaceous glands in the skin. A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes can be associated as well.
What are the symptoms of acne?
The symptoms of acne vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some of them are:
Do hormones play any role in the formation of acne?
Acne is caused by various factors but the main factor which leads to the occurrence of acne is the rise in the levels of androgen. This hormonal level rises at the beginning of adolescence. The rise in the levels of androgen causes the oil glands under the skin to grow. As a result, the enlarged glands produce more sebum. Excessive sebum breaks down the cellular walls in the pores and causes the bacteria to grow.
In adults, the Polycystic ovarian disease whereby there is a hormonal imbalance can also trigger acne.
What are the other factors which can lead to acne?
Besides hormonal changes, there are also some factors which contribute to the occurrence of acne:
What are the treatment options for acne?
Acne treatment depending on its severity. Low-grade acne removal responds to topicals like antibacterial creams and retinoid-based creams.
Severe acne treatment with oral antibiotics, oral retinoids, hormonal medications.
Blue light therapy is an adjuvant treatment. It kills the bacteria which causes acne known as Propionibacterium acnes.
Chemical peels like salicylic, glycolic, yellow peels also play a major role in controlling acne & the pigmentation. After a number of treatments, the blemishes of the skin begin to disappear, bringing back the natural and normal appearance of the skin. Along with the above, your dermatologist will tell you to use the right products including cleanser and sunscreen.
Dr.Deepika Lunawat is a renowned dermatologist who specializes in Acne management. For the best treatment options, one can contact Mahi Clinic.
