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Acne Treatment
What is acne?
Acne can be a concern at many ages. It is a condition that develops in and around the hair follicles and their oil-producing glands called the sebaceous glands. Acne usually develops on the face, chest and back. Our sebaceous glands (oil glands) start producing sebum soon after puberty. Acne usually starts during adolescence but it may also affect adults who used to have clear skin.
What are the possible causes of acne?
Acne is a chronic inflammatory disease with many possible causes. Increased sebum secretion due to hormonal changes is one of the more common causes. With increased sebum, comedones (commonly known as ‘blackheads’ and ‘whiteheads’) are often seen. A type of bacteria, called Propionibacterium acnes, can also cause acne. The presence of this bacteria can trigger inflammation in some people. The inflammation, in turn, can produce certain chemicals that are linked to the development of comedones and acne.
What are the types of acne and what do they look like?
Acne is commonly classified as follows: comedonal acne, papulopustular acne and nodulocystic acne. Comedones are non-inflamed, small skin-coloured bumps on the skin. Also known as ‘blackheads’ or ‘whiteheads’, they can be differentiated according to whether there is a black dot (clogged pore) in the middle. Papules and pustules are the pimple spots that we are familiar with. These appear as inflamed red spots that can sometimes be a little painful. Patients with more severe nodulocystic acne may have large bumps on the skin that are often painful and deep. This form of severe acne tends to leave scars.
How does acne cause scars?
In most people, papules and pustules can leave red or brown marks when they resolve. The more severe the inflammation, the darker the marks. When the inflammation is deep, severe or occurs repeatedly in the same parts of the face, acne scars may also occur.
Do I need to treat acne since everyone has it?
Acne should be treated early. Some signs and symptoms of acne include red painful bumps that may contain pus (pimples), whiteheads and blackheads (clogged pores), large nodules and cysts under the skin. There are safe and effective treatments for acne. Waiting to “outgrow” acne may be too late. Treating acne can help to prevent severe acne scars.
How is acne treated?
Acne treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition. For very mild acne, over-the-counter products like spot correctors and proper skin cleansers are sufficient. For more severe acne, prescription medication is needed. Sometimes, a combination of topical, oral and procedure-based treatment gives the best results.
DISCLAIMER:
The information written and published on this website is not intended to substitute the recommendations of a trained professional and does not replace a professional consultation.
It is advisable to undergo a formal consultation to help establish a relationship between the doctor and yourself, accurately determine your concerns/problems, and get the appropriate treatments for them.
It is also imperative to note that the contents of the website with respect to treatments, results and pricing can vary from individual to individual, and can only be accurately determined by the doctor upon diagnosis.
Do note that all medical treatments will only be administered upon proper consultation, with the requirement that patients be above 21 years of age to provide legal consent.
