Acne

Overview

Acne is the inflammation of the oil glands of the skin. This can lead to blackheads, whiteheads or pimples on the face, chest, arms and back. Acne is more often seen in adolescents.

Signs and Symptoms

Blackheads (open plugged pores), Whiteheads (closed plugged pores), Papules (small red bumps that are tender), Pimples (little bumps with pus at the tip), Nodules (big and painful bumps underneath the skin surface), Cystic lesions (painful bumps with pus underneath the skin surface)

Common Causes

Bacterial infection, Excessive oil production, Excessive hormonal activity, Hair follicles are clogged by dead skin cells and oil

Risk Factors

Teenagers are more likely to get acne compared to people of other age groups, Hormonal changes during puberty or pregnancy can cause enlargement of the oil glands of the skin and results in more oil production, People with family history of acne are more likely to develop acne, Usage of oily lotion or cream can cause acne, Frictions on the skin due to usage of mobile phones or helmets can worsen acne, Medications containing testosterone or steroids can worsen acne

Treatment and Prevention

Good basic skin care techniques, Manage stress well, Topical medications containing salicylic acid, azelaic acid, antibiotics or retinoids, Oral medications such as antibiotics, combined oral contraceptives and isotretinoin, Extraction of blackheads and whiteheads, Chemical peel, Laser therapy

Psychological Issues

Stress