Acne

acne

Acne vulgaris (commonly called acne) is a common inflammatory skin disease that mainly affects the face, neck, chest and upper back. These growths are commonly called pimples or "zits." Acne is most common in teenagers, but it can happen at any age, even in an infant. Three out of four teenagers have some acne. Common, reliable information about acne can seems scarce, and misinformation can make it difficult to achieve clearer skin.

Symptoms

Acne commonly appears on the face and shoulders, but it may also occur on the trunk, arms, legs, and buttocks.

·         Blackheads

·         Crusting of skin bumps

·         Cysts

·         Papules (small red bumps)

·         Pustules

·         Redness around the skin eruptions

·         Scarring of the skin

·         Whiteheads

Signs and tests

Acne can diagnose based on the appearance of the skin. Testing is usually not required.
Causes, incidence
No one knows exactly what causes acne. Hormone changes, such as those during the teenage years and pregnancy, probably play a role. It is caused by an interaction between hormones, bacteria and sebum .Acne occurs when tiny holes on the surface of the skin, called pores, become clogged.

·         Each pore is an opening to a follicle, which contains a hair and an oil gland. These oil glands help lubricate the skin and help remove old skin cells.

·         When glands produce too much oil, the pores can become blocked. Dirt, debris, bacteria, and inflammatory cells build up. The blockage is called a plug or comedone.

·         The top of the plug may be white (whitehead) or dark (blackhead).

·         If the plug breaks open, the material inside causes swelling and red bumps to form.

·         If the inflammation is deep in your skin, the pimples may enlarge to form firm, painful cysts.

·         Hormonal changes related to menstrual periods, pregnancy, birth control pills, or stress

·         Certain drugs (such as steroids, testosterone, estrogen, and phenytoin)

·         Greasy or oily cosmetic and hair products

There are many myths about what causes acne. Despite the popular belief that chocolate, nuts, and greasy foods cause acne, research does not confirm this idea. But there is little evidence that foods have much effect on acne in most people. Diets high in refined sugars may be related to acne, though. Another common myth is that dirty skin causes acne; however, blackheads and pimples are not caused by dirt. Stress doesn't cause acne, but stress can make it worse.
Acne is not caused by specific foods, but certain foods may make some people's acne worse. If certain foods seem to worsen your acne, try to avoid these foods. It also is important to know that very greasy foods do not necessarily make the skin oilier, but eating these foods can leave oil on the face, especially around the mouth. When some vegetable oils get on the skin, they can make acne worse.

Expectations (prognosis)

Acne usually goes away after the teenage years, but it may last into middle age. The condition often responds well to treatment after 6 - 8 weeks, but it may flare up from time to time.
Scarring may occur if severe acne is not treated. Some people, especially teenagers, can become very depressed if acne is not treated.

Treatment

Waiting for acne to clear on its own can be frustrating. It also can lead to permanent scarring, poor self-image, depression, and anxiety. To avoid these physical and emotional scars, dermatologists recommend that acne be properly treated. Treatment should continue for as long as needed to prevent the acne from recurring.

Self care:

Steps you can take to help your acne:

·         Clean your skin gently with a mild, nondrying soap (such as Dove, Neutrogena, Cetaphil, cerave, or Basics). Remove all dirt or make-up. Wash once or twice a day, including after exercising. However, avoid scrubbing or repeated skin washing.

·         Shampoo your hair daily, especially if it is oily. Comb or pull your hair back to keep the hair out of your face.

• Avoid the sun

A small amount of sun exposure may improve acne a little, but mostly it just hides the acne. However, too much exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet rays is not recommended because it increases the risk for skin cancer.

What not to do:

·         Try not to squeeze, scratch, pick, or rub the pimples. Although it might be tempting to do this, it can lead to skin infections and scarring.

·         Avoid wearing tight headbands, baseball caps, and other hats

·         Avoid touching your face with your hands or fingers.

·         Avoid greasy cosmetics or creams. Take off make-up at night. Look for water-based or "noncomedogenic" formulas. Noncomedogenic products have been tested and proven not to clog pores and cause acne.

If these steps do not clear up the blemishes, try over-the-counter acne medications. Treatments for acne include medicines and creams.

Calling your health care provider

Call your doctor or a dermatologist if:

·         Self-care measures and over-the-counter medicine have not helped after several months

·         Your acne is severe (for example, you have a lot of redness around the pimples or you have cysts)

·         Your acne is getting worse

·         You develop scars as your acne clears up

Call your baby's health care provider if your baby has acne that does not clear up on its own within 3 months.
Prescription medicine:
If pimples are still a problem, a health care provider can prescribe stronger medications and discuss other options with you.
Creams or gels applied to the skin may be prescribed:

Proper care is necessary

Acne is not curable, but it is controllable. Proper treatment can prevent scars and help you to feel and look your best. Seeing your dermatologist helps ensure that you are getting exceptional acne care.


How to prevent acne?