A common skin condition, acne affects people of all ages, but especially teenagers and young adults. A pimple occurs when the hair follicles on the skin become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. If left untreated, acne can cause physical discomfort, emotional distress, and scarring of the skin.
Causes of Acne
There are four main causes of acne:
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Overproduction of oil: The oil glands in the skin produce sebum, which lubricates hair and skin. However, too much sebum can clog pores and trap bacteria and dead skin cells.
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There are hair and oil glands in the hair follicles, a small opening in the skin. When the follicles become blocked by sebum, dead skin cells, or other substances, they can form comedones (whiteheads or blackheads) or inflamed bumps (papules or pustules).
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Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is the most common bacteria involved in acne. They multiply inside the clogged pores and cause infection and inflammation.
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The immune system responds to a bacterial infection by sending white blood cells to fight the bacteria. This causes redness, swelling, pain, and pus to form in the affected area.
Symptoms of Acne
The symptoms of acne vary depending on the type and severity of acne, but it is most common on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders.
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These are small white bumps on the skin caused by clogged pores that do not open to the surface.
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Blackheads are open comedones that appear as small black dots on the skin. They are caused by clogged pores that open to the surface and oxidize.
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Small red bumps that are tender to the touch are called pustules. They are caused by clogged pores that become infected and inflamed by bacteria.
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Pustules: are pus-filled bumps that have a white or yellow center surrounded by redness. They are caused by clogged pores that become infected and inflamed by bacteria.
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A nodule is a large, hard, and painful lump that forms under the skin. Nodules are caused by clogged pores that become infected and inflamed by bacteria.
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The cysts are large, soft, and painful lumps that contain pus and blood. They are caused by clogged pores that become infected and inflamed by bacteria.
According to the number, type, and size of the pimples, acne can range in severity from mild to severe. In mild acne, a few whiteheads, blackheads, or pustules are present. In moderate acne, more whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, or pustules are present. In severe acne, nodules or cysts cover large areas of the skin and cause scarring.
Diagnosis of Acne
A doctor or dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in skin conditions) can diagnose acne by taking a physical examination of the skin. The doctor will look at the type, number, and location of the pimples and ask about the patient's medical history, family history, medications, diet, stress level, and skin care routine.
Some tests may also be conducted by the doctor in order to rule out other possible causes of skin problems or to determine the best treatment option. These tests include:
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Blood tests: These can check for hormone levels, blood sugar levels, or signs of infection or inflammation.
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Skin tests: These can check for allergies or sensitivities to certain substances or products.
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Skin biopsy: This is when a small sample of skin is taken and examined under a microscope to look for signs of infection or inflammation.
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Culture: This is when a sample of pus or fluid from a pimple is taken and grown in a laboratory to identify the type of bacteria involved.
Treatment of Acne
As well as age, skin type, and preferences of the patient, acne treatment depends on its type and severity. As part of the treatment, the patient is expected to clear existing pimples, prevent new ones from developing, reduce inflammation and scarring, and improve their appearance and quality of life.
The treatment options for acne include:
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Topical medications: These are creams, gels, lotions, or solutions that are applied directly to the affected area of the skin. They can contain different active ingredients that work in different ways to treat acne. Some of the common topical medications for acne are:
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Retinoids
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Antibiotics
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Benzoyl peroxide
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Salicylic acid
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Azelaic acid
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Sulfur
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Oral medications: These are pills or capsules that are taken by mouth. They can contain different active ingredients that work in different ways to treat acne. Some of the common oral medications for acne are:
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Antibiotics
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Isotretinoin
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Hormonal therapy
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Oral contraceptives: These are pills that contain synthetic hormones such as estrogen and progestin that can suppress the production of androgens and regulate the menstrual cycle.
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Anti-androgens: These are medications that block the action of androgens on the skin and hair follicles.
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Other treatments: These are treatments that are not medications but can help treat acne by different methods. Some of the other treatments for acne are:
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Light therapy
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Chemical peels
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Microdermabrasion
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Extraction
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Drainage
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Corticosteroid injection
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Laser therapy
Prevention of Acne
It is possible to prevent acne by following some simple tips that can keep the skin healthy and clear. Some of these tips include:
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Don't scrub or use harsh products that can irritate your skin. Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type.
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After washing your face, apply a moisturizer that is non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) or oil-free. Do not overmoisten your skin as this can cause more oil production.
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Wear non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) or oil-free sunscreen when outdoors. Avoid sun exposure as it can aggravate inflammation and scarring.
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The actions of touching, picking, popping, or squeezing your pimples can spread bacteria, cause infection, increase inflammation, and cause scarring.
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Using heavy, greasy, or expired makeup can clog your pores and cause acne. Makeup that is non-comedogenic (doesn't clog pores) or oil-free should be used.
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Smoking can damage your skin cells, increase inflammation, and worsen acne.
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Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet. Avoid dairy products, chocolate, and high-glycemic foods (such as white bread, rice, and sugar).
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Keep your skin hydrated and flush your body of toxins by drinking plenty of water.
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Improve your blood circulation, reduce stress, and balance your hormones by exercising regularly.
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Meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, and hobbies can help you manage your stress levels.
By understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of acne, you can manage it and improve your health.
