Acne

A skin condition that is quite common in adolescence is acne. The term acne refers to a skin condition where the hair follicles become clogged with oil from the skin and the dead skin cells, resulting in blackheads, whiteheads, and bumps that are commonly called pimples.

Often referred to as acne vulgaris, this skin condition is characterized by oily skin and scarring that the pimples or zits are left behind. Though usually common in young adults and teenagers, acne is a long term skin disease that can affect anyone.

Causes

A number of reasons are responsible for the acne invasion. Here are some of the most common causes:

 

1. Excessive oil production

The maximum units of oil-producing glands are present under the skin of areas like shoulders, face and neck Sebum is an oily substance that is produced by these oil-producing sebaceous glands. Therefore, excessive oil production of these glands leads to pore clogging, increasing the chances of having acne.

 

2. Skin irritation

Sometimes, skin irritation can also lead to acne invasion. Prolonged exposure to the sunlight, pressure on the skin, holding a mobile against the face, wearing tight clothes, or applying makeups consisting of harsh chemicals can trigger this skin problem.

 

3. Hormonal imbalance

The sex hormones (androgens) are also responsible for the sebum production of the skin, disturbances of the same during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation or due to any other health conditions can also make the acne appear.

 

4. Medications

The use of certain skin creams or oral medications containing lithium or corticosteroids can also lead to causing acne.

 

5. Other Factors

Poor dietary habits, lack of hygiene, genetics, and stress also play an important role in causing acne.

Treatments

1. Oral medications

Antibiotics, anti-androgen agents, oral contraceptives, and isotretinoin are some of the medication types that are used to prevent acne and to treat existing acne-prone skins.

 

2. Topical medications

Topical medications are the most common form of treatment options for dealing with acne. After analyzing the skin condition, skin creams or ointments are prescribed that helps in reducing the plugging of the hair follicles which all lead to acne.

 

3. Skin therapies 

Depending on the skin type and the severity of acne, there are various therapies available that can cure acne. From chemical peels to steroid injections, photodynamic and laser therapies and extraction of whiteheads and blackheads are there to be used alone or in a combination with other treatment methods to treat acne. When the hormonal imbalances are responsible for acne, hormone therapy may be used as a reliable acne treatment.

 

4. Self-care

A few good practices such as protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure and avoiding picking, scarring or touching the acne-prone skin area can also help in managing and controlling the condition.

Acne can affect facial skin, skin on the back, chest, and the shoulders, and can result in white or dark spots and scars on the affected area. Often causing embarrassment and irritation, the condition, however, can be well-managed with help from your dermatologist.


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