What is Acne?
Acne is a skin disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic condition that causes blackheads, whiteheads, papules and other skin lesions. Although it is most commonly associated with teenagers, people of all ages can develop acne. Blackheads and whiteheads, known as comedones, are the smallest visible type of acne. As the size of a comedone increases, the hair follicle ruptures resulting in redness and inflammation. These inflamed comedones take the form of papules (red bumps) or pustules (bumps that contain pus). If the clogged pores are deeper and more irritated, they can even turn into painful, deep nodules and cysts. Nodular and cystic acne are the most severe types of acne.
Understanding the causes of Acne:
Acne occurs when the hair follicles in the skin become clogged with dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria. The clogged follicle can result in a whitehead or blackhead. When the clogged follicle becomes infected with bacteria, it can cause a pimple. Four main factors contribute to the development of acne:
- High sebum production: This occurs when the oil producing glands in the skin are hypersensitive to normal circulating levels of hormones called androgen. There is excessive production of sebum which leads to acne.
- Hyperkeratinisation: It occurs when dead skin cells clump together to clog the pores.
- Propionibacterium acnes: It is a type of bacterium that lives on the skin of most healthy adults and clogged pores create the perfect environment for this bacterium to grow and multiply.
- Inflammation: The P. Acnes bacteria grow, they secrete waste products and enzymes. These damage skin cells and trigger an immune response resulting in inflamed acne.
Some of the causes of Acne are:
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes are a common cause of acne. During adolescence, the body produces more androgen hormones, which can cause the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This excess oil can lead to clogged hair follicles and the development of acne.
- Stress: Stress can trigger acne breakouts. When you are stressed, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This excess oil can lead to clogged hair follicles and the development of acne.
- Diet: Although diet is not a direct cause of acne, it can contribute to the development of the condition. Eating foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates can increase insulin levels, which can trigger the production of androgen hormones. This hormonal imbalance can lead to the development of acne.
- Genetics: Acne can run in families. If your parents or siblings have a history of acne, you may be more likely to develop the condition.
- Endocrine disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and sometimes even pregnancy.
- Medications like lithium, steroids, and anticonvulsants.
Effective Treatment Options for Acne
There are several effective treatment options for acne. The type of treatment that is most appropriate for you will depend on the severity of your acne and your skin type.
Topical Treatments: Topical treatments are medications that are applied directly to the skin. They work by reducing inflammation, unclogging pores, and killing bacteria. They are used for the treatment of mild acne. Some of the most common topical treatments for acne include:
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Antibiotics
- Salicylic acid
- Retinoids
Oral Medications: Oral medications are prescription medications used for the treatment of moderate to severe acne. They work by reducing inflammation, killing bacteria, and regulating hormonal imbalances. Some of the most common oral medications for acne include:
- Antibiotics
- Hormonal medications
- Isotretinoin
Other therapies include chemical peels, laser therapy and dermabrasion.
Skincare: Several skincare tips that can help to reduce the appearance of acne. These include washing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, avoiding touching your face, using oil-free skincare products, and using a non-comedogenic sunscreen.
Preventing Acne Breakouts
While there is no sure fire way to prevent acne, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the condition. Some of the most effective ways to prevent acne breakouts include:
- Treatment of the underlying cause
- Maintaining a Healthy Diet
- Stress Management
- Maintaining a good skincare routine
- Avoiding comedogenic products
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world that can cause emotional distress and also affect self-esteem and confidence. However, with recent advances in medicine, it can be treated effectively. It is important to seek treatment for acne to prevent scarring and to improve overall skin health.
Please contact me and see if I can assist you in forming a treatment strategy that is effective for your skin and improves scarring or if you are suffering from persistent and painful breakouts. I can even provide you with a bespoke skin care routine. My goal is to help you love your skin and I’m here to help start the process.