Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin disorders which largely affect adolescents. Acne causes clogged pores leading to pimple outbreaks, cysts, infected abscesses and sometimes even scarring.

During puberty, the male sex hormones called androgens, increase in both boys and girls, causing the Sebaceous Glands to become more active resulting in an increased production of oil. Acne can also cause psychological stress and for many individuals it can be socially disabling.

How Acne develops?

The oil or Sebum produced by your Sebaceous Glands moves to the skin surface via the hair follicles and protects your skin. At times the dead skin cells, dried oil and bacteria cover the hair follicles and block the oil secreted by your Sebaceous Glands. Bacteria can grow in these blocked follicles causing inflammation. Later, these blocked follicles burst, spilling oil and bacteria, which leads to irritation and pimples. Squeezing and scrubbing skin too hard may aggravate Acne further.

Click here to view animation on stages of Acne

Development of Acne

What causes acne?
Acne occurs due to a combination of several factors, influenced mainly by heredity,
age and gender. Lifestyle factors, such as diet or grooming habits appear to play
a minimal role.

The most important and common causes of Acne include:

• High levels of Hormone secretion during adolescence.
• At times Acne may also run in families.
• Hormonal changes during menstruation.
• Adverse reactions due to certain medication and cosmetics.
• Grease and oils from the scalp, cooking oil or mineral oil.
• Environmental factors like pollution or humid climatic conditions.
• Bacterial infections.
• Stress may worsen Acne.

Blackheads are caused due to incomplete blockage; White Heads are caused due to complete blockage of hair follicles. Bacterial infection and irritation may lead to pus formation.

Black head

What are the different types of acne?
Depending upon the cause of acne, they are categorized as follows:

Acne vulgaris: Commonly occur during puberty and is the most common type.

Chemical acne: Occur due to exposure to certain chemicals and oils.

Chloracne: Chlorinated hydrocarbons can cause Acne.

Tropical acne: Usually caused due to hot and humid climatic conditions.

Treatment for acne
The treatment for Acne depends on various factors like severity of the acne, tolerance to the medication, health condition, etc. There are many over-the-counter medications available for the treatment of Acne. It is recommended that you seek your doctor’s advice regarding treatment options. Your doctor knows what is best for you.

Things you should know about Acne

Wash your face twice a day with mild soap.

Avoid scrubbing face as this will worsen Acne.

Do not squeeze or pick at pimples as this may cause scarring.

Use a fresh washcloth every day.

Shampoo your hair regularly.

Do not be exposed to too much cold, heat and sunlight.

Do not opt for hairstyles in which the hair is constantly touching your face.

It is preferable to use a water-based moisturizer since greasy or oily creams block the pores and may cause pimples.

If you notice that spots increase after you eat certain foods, try to avoid them.

Choose a varied diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Drink lots of water.