About Acne :

Acne is a very common skin condition occurring due to blockage and irritation of sebaceous glands (oil glands). It is called by other names like pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, breakouts and zits.

 

Causes :

• Increased size of sebaceous glands (oil glands) producing more oil

• Increase in number of bacteria (P. acnes) in the oil glands

• Blockage of opening of sebaceous glands (oil glands)

• Hormonal influences (PCOD and Adult acne)

 

Aggravating factors :

• Stress

• Irregular diet

• Pregnancy

• Sweat

• Facial massage

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Presentation :

• Mostly found in adolescent

• Acne after 30 yrs of age : Adult acne

• Acne due to hormonal fluctuations :  Hormonal acne

• Most common area : Face

• Other areas involved : Chest and back

• Increases in summer

 

Types :

• Comedones/Blackheads/Whiteheads

• Red bumps (Papules)

• Pus filled bumps (Pustules)

• Big hard bumps ( Nodules)

• Big bumps with fluid inside (Cystic acne)

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ACNE: Tips for Managing

You can reduce your acne by following these skin care tips :

• Always consult a Dermatologist regarding products which can be used.

• Wash twice a day and after sweating. Perspiration can make acne worse, so wash your skin as soon as possible after sweating.

• Use your fingertips to apply a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. Using a washcloth, mesh sponge or anything else can irritate the skin.

• Be gentle with your skin. Use gentle products, such as those that are alcohol-free. Do not use products that irritate your skin, which may include astringents, toners and exfoliants.

• Scrubbing your skin can make acne worse. Avoid the temptation to scrub your skin.

• Rinse with lukewarm water.

• Shampoo regularly. If you have oily hair, shampoo daily.

• Let your skin heal naturally. If you pick, pop or squeeze your acne, your skin will take longer to clear and you increase the risk of getting acne scars.

• Keep your hands off your face. Touching your skin throughout the day can cause flare-ups.

• Stay out of the sun. Tanning damages your skin and In addition, some acne medications make the skin very sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light, which you get from sun. 

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Myths v/s reality

• Acne is not just limited to teenagers, adults can experience it too.

• Touching/squeezing/self handling of acne is not the solution as it leads to scarring and pigmentation.