Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages, though it is most common in teenagers and young adults. It occurs when hair follicles or pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to the development of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or painful cysts. While acne primarily appears on the face, it can also affect other areas like the chest, back, and shoulders. Although not a serious health issue, untreated acne can impact self-esteem and cause permanent scarring.
The clogging of hair follicles results from an accumulation of sebum, an oily substance that protects the skin; dead skin cells that fail to shed properly; or bacteria, which naturally exist on the skin but may multiply excessively, says Dr Chandni Jain Gupta, MBBS, MD Dermatologist and Aesthetic physician, Elantis Healthcare, Lajpat Nagar, New Delhi. “This blockage triggers inflammation, causing redness, swelling, pain, and visible discoloration. Acne can manifest in various forms and is influenced by factors such as hormonal changes, genetics, and environmental conditions. However, effective treatments are available to manage symptoms, clear up blemishes, and prevent scarring,” she adds.
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Dr Gupta lists the following causes and symptoms of acne breakouts, and suggests ways in which you can prevent them:
Acne can present itself in various forms, depending on the severity and type of blockage:
Pimples (Pustules): Red, inflamed bumps with visible white or yellow pus at the center. These are often tender to the touch and signal infection within the pore.
Papules: Small, tender, discolored bumps, often red, purple, or darker than the skin tone. Papules occur when pores are clogged and inflamed but do not contain pus.
Blackheads: Open pores clogged with oil and dead skin cells, appearing black due to oxidation. They are a mild form of acne and less likely to cause inflammation.
Whiteheads: Closed, clogged pores appearing as white bumps. They form when a clogged pore remains sealed beneath the skin's surface.
Nodules: Large, painful lumps under the skin caused by severe inflammation. These are deep-rooted and can last for weeks or months without treatment.
Cysts: Deep, pus-filled, painful lumps that may lead to significant scarring. Cystic acne is the most severe type and often requires medical intervention.
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Causes of acne:
The main cause of acne is clogged pores or hair follicles. This can happen due to the following:
Excess sebum: Overproduction of oil in the skin, which creates an ideal environment for clogged pores.
Dead skin cells: Accumulation of dead cells that clog pores, especially when not removed effectively during cleansing.
Bacteria: Overgrowth of bacteria that live naturally on the skin, causing inflammation and infection in clogged pores.
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Treatments for acne:
Wash your face regularly: Cleanse your skin twice daily with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubs or astringents, as these can strip the skin and worsen acne.
Use topical treatments: Opt for over-the-counter products with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids to target clogged pores and bacteria. These help in reducing inflammation and preventing breakouts.
Avoid picking: Don’t pick, squeeze, or rub pimples, as this can worsen inflammation and cause scarring or dark spots.
Protect from the sun: Limit sun exposure and use non-comedogenic sunscreen to prevent acne-related discoloration and irritation.
Maintain a healthy diet: Reduce sugar and dairy intake to minimize flare-ups, as certain foods may trigger acne in some people.
Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques, as stress can increase hormone levels and contribute to breakouts.
Avoid oily products: Use non-greasy, non-comedogenic makeup and skincare products to prevent pore clogging.
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Topical treatments:
Benzoyl Peroxide: Reduces bacteria and inflammation, often used for mild to moderate acne.
Salicylic Acid: Helps exfoliate dead skin and unclog pores, making it effective for blackheads and whiteheads.
Retinoids: Prevent clogged pores and treat blackheads/whiteheads. They also promote cell turnover to improve skin texture.
Topical antibiotics: Treat bacteria-related acne and reduce redness when used in combination with other treatments.
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Oral medications:
Antibiotics: Effective for moderate to severe acne by targeting bacteria and reducing inflammation.
Isotretinoin: A powerful oral retinoid for severe acne, shrinking oil glands and preventing clogging.
Hormonal treatments: Birth control pills or spironolactone help balance hormones in women, reducing acne caused by hormonal fluctuations.
Additional therapies:
Steroids: Steroid injections are used to treat severe acne by reducing inflammation in large, painful nodules.
Lasers: Laser and light therapies help treat acne scars by delivering heat to scarred collagen under the skin, stimulating the body’s natural healing process to form new, healthy collagen and skin.
Chemical peels: This treatment uses special chemicals to remove the top layer of old skin, allowing smoother, healthier skin to grow and reducing the appearance of acne scars.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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