Acne – Causes and Treatment

Acne is a common skin condition that affects the hair follicles and the sebaceous glands in the skin, which secrete an oily substance called sebum. Acne commonly on occurs on the face, arms, back and chest.

Most adolescents and young adults show evidence of acne. It is most prevalent between 15 and 24 years, and is more common and more severe in males than in females. Onset peaks early in puberty and usually resolves in males during their early 20s. Females can develop acne for the first time after puberty and are more likely to suffer ongoing acne, which can persist into their 30s and 40s. Acne mainly affects the face, neck, chest, shoulders and upper back; areas which have the highest density of sebaceous glands.

Cause Of Acne

The exact cause of acne is unknown, but doctors believe it results from several related factors. One important factor is an increase in hormones called androgens (male sex hormones). These increase in both boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills can also cause acne.

Acne occurs when tiny holes on the surface of the skin called pores become clogged. Each pore is an opening to a canal called a follicle, which contains a hair and an oil gland. Normally, the oil glands help keep the skin lubricated and help remove old skin cells. When glands produce too much oil, the pores can become blocked, accumulating dirt, debris, and bacteria.

Testosterone in people prone to acne triggers the sebaceous glands to produce an excess of sebum. At the same time, the dead skin cells lining the openings of the hair follicles (the tubes that hold the hair) are not shed properly and clog up the follicles.

Treatment For Acne

If you have acne and you feel that it is getting worse instead of better, the best thing that you can do is let a professional dermatologist have a look at your condition and prescribe an appropriate treatment for you. Mild acne is first treated by gently washing the area twice daily with warm water and soap. In addition to cleansing the area, an over-the-counter cream or similar otc products that incorporates benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid should be used. These can be found in most pharmacies, and kill the bacteria on the epidermis. Proper skin care is essential. It is important to comprehend that improvements take time and do not happen overnight, especially with topical solutions. Look for a gradual, steady improvement in the condition of your skin.

Treatments that promise “fast,” miraculous” or “overnight” results often capture the attention of acne sufferers hoping for quick resolution. However, the fact remains that acne does not clear overnight. On average, 6 to 8 weeks are needed to see initial results. Once acne significantly improves or clears, continued treatment is needed to keep acne from re-appearing. If acne does not improve in 6 to 8 weeks, treatment may need to be adjusted as not every acne treatment clears every case of acne.