Acne is a quite common skin condition that causes pimples mostly on the face, forehead, chest, shoulders and upper back. Acne also affects almost every area of our lives. It even causes some individuals to refrain from going out, because it seems as if everyone is focusing on their face and passing judgment. It is estimated that 95% of people ages 11 to 30 will have at least a mild form of acne, and most people are affected by it at some point in their lives.
What is acne?
Acne occurs when the pores of our skin become blocked by hair, sebum (an oily substance), bacteria and dead skin cells. Those blockages produce blackheads, whiteheads, nodules and other types of pimples. Acne is caused by many varied factors, but one of the main ones is genetics. This means you are not at fault – it is in your genes! Other factors include excess oil production, a bacteria called Cutibacterium Acnes, and plugging of the follicles. Factors that can trigger and worsen acne are diet, stress, hormonal problems, hair products, and cosmetics (some brands more than others).
What are the distinct types of acne?
Acne can take several forms. They include:
• Blackheads: Open bumps on the skin that fill with excess oil and dead skin. They look as if dirt has deposited in the bump, but the dark spots are caused by an irregular light reflection off the clogged follicle.
• Whiteheads: Bumps that remain closed by oil and dead skin.
• Papules: Small red or pink bumps that become inflamed.
• Pustules: Pimples containing pus. They look like whiteheads surrounded by red rings. They can cause scarring if picked or scratched.
• Fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis): This type occurs when an excess of yeast develops in the hair follicles. They can become itchy and inflamed.
• Nodules: Solid pimples that are deep in your skin. They are large and painful.
• Cysts: Pus-filled pimples. These can cause scars.
All these forms of acne can affect your self-esteem. It is best to seek help from your healthcare provider early so they can help determine the best treatment option(s) for you.
Who is affected by acne?
Acne is quite common in teenagers and younger adults. Acne is most common in girls from the ages of 14 to 17, and in boys from the ages of 16 to 19.
Most people have acne on and off for several years before their symptoms start to improve as they get older. Acne often disappears when a person is in his/her mid-twenties. In some cases, acne can continue into adult life. About 3% of adults have acne over the age of thirty-five.
Do certain foods cause acne?
For the most part, hormonal changes in the body drive acne. There is some evidence that skim milk, whey protein and diets, high in sugar, may cause acne breakouts, although this remains controversial. Chocolate has not been linked to acne. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet, with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially those rich with vitamin C and beta carotene, helps reduce inflammation. There is also some evidence that eating fish can help.
How is acne treated?
Your doctor may suggest some non-prescription medications for your acne. Depending on the condition’s severity, your age, the type of acne you have, and how effective the over-the-counter remedies have been, you may need stronger prescription medications.
The use of certain contraceptives can sometimes help a woman’s acne go away.
Various medications and therapies have proven to be effective. They target the underlying factors that contribute to acne. You might require at least one or multiple – depending on the severity of your condition.
Do I need to see a specialist?
Your acne can be managed by your general healthcare provider. However, when acne does not improve, or is severe, you should see an experienced dermatologist.
What can you do for mild acne?
If you have mild acne, there are lots of things you can do on your own to improve it. I recommend that all affected individuals cleanse their face twice daily, use a facial scrub at least three times per week if they have oily skin, and gentle toner at least once daily. Refrain from trying any and every soap and handmade cream on the market – as some ingredients can have permanent side effects.
In addition, if you notice that certain foods like sweets or dairy cause the worsening of your acne, then you must avoid them. You should clean your phone at least once daily, and change face towels and pillowcases at least twice weekly. You should also wash make-up brushes and sponges weekly.
Try to resist the temptation to pick or squeeze the spots, as this can lead to permanent scarring.
Prevention
Preventing acne is difficult, if not impossible, during normal hormonal changes, but some things can help:
• Wash your face twice daily with warm water and a mild facial cleanser.
• Routinely use moisturiser.
• You do not have to stop using makeup – but try to use “non-comedogenic” products, and remove makeup at the end of each day.
• Keep your hands away from your face.
Acne and pregnancy
Many topical and oral acne treatments are contraindicated during pregnancy. If you are a woman in your childbearing years, it is important to discuss acne treatments with your healthcare provider and alert him/her if you become pregnant. Isotretinoin is known to cause severe birth defects, and therefore two methods of birth control are required while on this medication.
Conclusion
Acne is a quite common skin condition. Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. Acne is most common among teenagers, though it affects people of all ages as well. Effective acne treatments are now available, but acne can be persistent. Depending on its severity, acne can cause emotional distress and scar the skin. The earlier you start treatment, the lower your risk of such problems.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented. Always talk to your doctor for professional medical advice.
Dr Brett Hodge is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 4975828).
