Overview

One of the most prevalent skin disorders, acne affects millions of individuals globally, particularly teenagers and young adults. Acne is a common yet often humiliating condition, but it may be much more manageable if you know what causes it, how to cure it, and what causes it. This article will cover all you need to know about acne, including its causes, symptoms, effective treatments, and preventative measures.

All You Need To Know About Acne Treatments

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that develops when dead skin cells and oil build up in hair follicles. It creates pimples in addition to blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes deeper, more unpleasant lesions like nodules and cysts. Acne can appear anywhere there are sebaceous glands, which generate oil to keep skin hydrated. These areas include the face, neck, shoulders, back, and chest. [1]

Types of Acne

Acne can manifest in different ways, and it's helpful to understand the different types of lesions:

  • Whiteheads: These are closed, clogged pores that appear as small, white bumps under the skin.
  • Blackheads: These are open, clogged pores that appear as small, dark spots on the skin's surface.
  • Papules: These are small, red, tender bumps on the skin's surface.
  • Pustules: These are red bumps with a white or yellow center filled with pus.
  • Nodules: These are large, solid, painful lumps deep under the skin.
  • Cysts: These are large, pus-filled lumps under the skin that can be very painful.

Causes of Acne

Several factors can contribute to the development of acne, including:

  • 1. Hormones: During puberty, hormones called androgens increase, which causes the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This excess oil can clog pores and lead to acne. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstrual cycles can also trigger acne in some women.
  • 2. Genetics: If your parents had acne, you're more likely to develop it too.
  • 3. Bacteria: The skin naturally contains bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). When these bacteria build up in clogged pores, they can cause inflammation and lead to acne lesions.
  • 4. Medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, lithium, and some birth control pills, can cause or worsen acne.
  • 5. Diet: While the relationship between diet and acne is still debated, some studies suggest that foods with a high glycemic index, dairy products, and fatty foods may contribute to acne.
  • 6. Stress: While stress doesn't directly cause acne, it can worsen existing acne by increasing inflammation and oil production.

Treating Acne

The good news is that acne is treatable, and there are many options available, depending on the severity of your condition:
Over-the-Counter Treatments:
For mild acne, you can try over-the-counter (OTC) treatments containing ingredients like: [2]

  • Benzoyl peroxide: This antibacterial agent helps kill the bacteria that cause acne and remove excess oil and dead skin cells from pores.
  • Salicylic acid: This beta-hydroxy acid helps unclog pores by breaking down dead skin cells.
  • Sulfur: This ingredient helps dry out pimples and remove excess oil.
  • Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives, like adapalene, help unclog pores and prevent new breakouts.

Prescription Treatments:

For moderate to severe acne, your dermatologist may prescribe stronger treatments, including:

  • Oral antibiotics: These help kill the bacteria that cause acne and reduce inflammation.
  • Topical retinoids: Stronger versions of OTC retinoids, like tretinoin and tazarotene, can unclog pores and prevent new lesions from forming.
  • Birth control pills: For women, birth control pills can help regulate hormones and reduce acne.
  • Isotretinoin (Accutane): This powerful oral medication is reserved for severe, treatment-resistant acne. It can have serious side effects, so it's closely monitored by your dermatologist. [3]
  • Spironolactone: This medication can help treat hormonal acne in women by blocking the effects of androgens.

Other Treatments:

In addition to medications, your dermatologist may recommend other treatments, such as:
Chemical peels: These help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Laser and light therapies: These can target and destroy acne-causing bacteria and reduce oil production.
Cortisone injections: For large, painful cysts, a cortisone injection can help reduce inflammation and speed up healing.

Prevention and Self-Care

acne prevention and self-care

Acne Prevention and Self-Care. Shutterstock Image

While acne can be stubborn, there are some things you can do to help prevent breakouts and manage your condition:

  • Wash your face twice a day with a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. Avoid scrubbing too hard, which can irritate your skin.
  • Use oil-free, non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) moisturizers and cosmetics.
  • Remove makeup before going to bed.
  • Shower after sweating to remove excess oil and bacteria.
  • Don't pick or squeeze pimples, as this can lead to scarring and further infection.
  • Manage stress through exercise, meditation, or other relaxation techniques.
  • Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.

When to See a Dermatologist?

If over-the-counter medications aren't helping you or if your acne is severe, you should consult a dermatologist. They are competent in making an accurate diagnosis and recommending the best line of action to treat your specific type of acne. It is strongly advised that you get professional help because untreated acne can cause mental distress and scarring.

Acne and Self-Esteem

Acne can have an impact on your emotions and sense of self in addition to your physical health. It's critical to understand that acne is a common problem rather than an indication of weakness or inadequate hygiene. Joining an acne support group or getting professional treatment for your mental health concerns are good options if your acne is causing you to feel self-conscious, nervous, or unhappy. [4]

In Conclusion

Acne is a common and treatable condition that affects many people at some point in their lives. By understanding the causes and types of acne, using appropriate treatments, and practicing good skin care habits, you can effectively manage your acne and prevent scarring. Remember, you're not alone, and seeking help from a dermatologist can make a significant difference in your skin's appearance and your overall well-being.

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4 Sources

We review published medical research in respected scientific journals to arrive at our conclusions about a product or health topic. This ensures the highest standard of scientific accuracy.

[1] Ayer J, Burrows N. Acne: more than skin deep. Postgrad Med J. 2006 Aug;82(970):500-6. doi: 10.1136/pgmj.2006.045377. PMID: 16891439; PMCID: PMC2585707.
[2] "Nonprescription acne treatment: Which products work best?" Mayo Clinic, 21 July 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/in-depth/acne-treatments/art-20045814.
[3] Pile, Hannah D. and Nazia M. Sadiq. "StatPearls [Internet]." Isotretinoin. StatPearls Publishing, 1 May. 2023, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525949/#:~:text=Isotretinoin%20is%20an%20oral%20prescription,conventional%20therapy%2C%20including%20systemic%20antibiotics.
[4] Gallitano SM, Berson DS. How Acne Bumps Cause the Blues: The Influence of Acne Vulgaris on Self-Esteem. Int J Womens Dermatol. 2017 Dec 6;4(1):12-17. doi: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2017.10.004. PMID: 30023422; PMCID: PMC6047192.
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MaryBeth Parisi, MD

Dr. MaryBeth Parisi is a board-certified Harvard trained Dermatologist. She has over 18 years of experience in the field of skin care.