ACNE: Is acne treatment worth it?

What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition which most often begins in adolescence. The term is used to describe clogged pores and outbreaks of lesions commonly called pimples or zits. They are typically found on the face, neck, back, chest and shoulders.

What Causes Acne?

- Acne is most commonly caused by the changes that occur in adolescence. Specifically, the hormones which prompt physical maturation also cause the sebaceous, or oil-producing glands of the skin, to produce more sebum (oil). When skin cells mix with an increase in sebum, pores are clogged and acne can result. Male hormones (androgens), present in both males and females, are the primary culprit in acne.
- Hormone fluctuations and cosmetics can also produce acne, notably in adult women.
Another cause of acne is heredity or genetics. Researchers believe that the tendency to develop acne can be inherited from parents. For example, studies have shown that many school-age boys with acne have a family history of the disorder.

- Certain drugs, including androgens and lithium, are known to cause acne

Who Gets Acne?

Teen Girls
• 79-82 percent of girls have acne.
• Girls tend to be more motivated to visit their dermatologists on their own to seek treatment.
Teen Boys
• Acne in boys is typically more severe and longer-lasting than in girls.
• 81-95 percent of boys have acne.
• Chest and back acne is more prevalent in males.
• Boys are generally less likely to seek treatment.
• Parents can motivate and assist boys in visiting a dermatologist and obtaining an effective, appropriate treatment.
Adults
• Acne is more prevalent in women than men.
• Acne prevalence in women appears to be increasing.
• Factors that may contribute to acne in women include: Hormonal fluctuations of menstrual cycles, and cosmetic use.
• When women develop acne, it can persist into mid-life

What makes acne flare up?


• Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women 2 to 7 days before their menstrual period starts
• Oil from skin products (moisturizers or cosmetics) or grease encountered in the work environment (for example, a kitchen with fry vats)
• Pressure from sports helmets or equipment, backpacks, tight collars, or tight sports uniforms
• Environmental irritants, such as pollution and high humidity
• Squeezing or picking
• Hard scrubbing of the skin

Are There Different Types of Acne?

There are two classes of acne, Non-inflammatory and Inflammatory.
Non-inflammatory
• Whiteheads are plugged follicles below the surface of the skin.
• Blackheads are enlarged plugs, appearing dark in color, that push through the skin's surface.
Inflammatory
• Papules develop as firm, pink bumps that feel tender to the touch.
• Pustules are small, round lesions with a red base and yellowish or white center.
• Nodules/Cysts, a severe form of acne, are very large and painful and can result in scarring.

Does acne need treatment?

-Acne can cause scars, particularly from severe acne (such as nodules) or from people picking, squeezing or popping their acne. This is why it is important to treat acne as soon as possible.
-While the "invisible" aspects of acne are often overlooked, the emotional and social impact may be as great as what is seen in serious, chronic conditions, including asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, back pain and arthritis.
Adolescents with acne may experience a range of emotional and social symptoms:
• Social isolation
• Decreased self-esteem
• Reduced self-confidence
• Poor body image
• Feelings of embarrassment, depression, anger, preoccupation and frustration
• Missed school, work or social events
This is another reason why it is important to cure acne as early as possible.
BASIC ACNE SKIN CARE REGIMEN : -
• A healthy, well-balanced diet must be observed. Meaning, your food intake must incorporate all the essential nutrients the body needs for efficient functioning.
• Drink plenty of fluids like water, juices. Minimize the intake of carbonated drinks.
• Wash your face with mild soap and water.
• Minimize the use of abrasive cleansers and use acne skin care items that exfoliate mildly.
TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE (with a dermatologist)
- Medicines for local application: retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, salicylic acid, azelaic acid.
- Medicines for oral use : antibiotics, retinoids, hormonal therapies.
- Peels: Salicylic acid peels, Glycolic peels.
- Lasers: IPL and Pulse dye laser .

Dr. Shaiil Gupta
MBBS, MD (Dermatology)
Satya Skin, Hair & Laser Clinic


SUMMARY


Acne is a very common problem seen in teenagers although no age is immune. Most of the times patients don’t take treatment or waste their time in home remedies or homeopathic treatments. Yes, acne is a self resolving condition but one should take treatment because of 2 reasons. 1st to avoid social embarrassment caused by acne & 2nd to avoid potential scarring & disfigurement.

Dr. Ruchi Agarwal
MBBS, MD (Dermatology).
Satya Skin, Hair & Laser Clinic.