ACNE and Its Management

ACNE and Its Management

How will you define acne?

• It is inflamed and infected sebaceous glands of the skin.
• It is characterized by red pimples on the face and is common in teenagers.

ACNE

What is the mechanism of acne?

1. 80% of teenage boys get acne and blame male hormones.
   1. Boys get more acne than girls.
   2. Girls get acne during their 20, 30, and 40 because of their cosmetic use.
2. Our skin has oil glands on the face, chest, and back that will lubricate the skin by producing sebum.
3. The oil will flow out of these glands. There are tiny ducts through which oil will come to the skin.
4. When these ducts are plugged with sebum, bacteria, and dead epithelial cells shedding from the ducts, this whole process leads to ACNE.
   1. On the surface of the skin, you can see the blackhead.

ACNE and blackhead

5. This condition usually appears in adolescence, possibly due to hormonal changes.
6. Because of the hormone, these glands become hypertrophic and produce more oil.
7. It is suggested that oil makes sticky-dead cells and may block the ducts.
8. This stage will be over after the teenager.

What are the Factors for the possibility of acne?

1. Some people believe that it is because of gene abnormality.
2. Hormone changes are considered one of the causes. When you give contraceptive pills, it may improve acne.
   1. If one has acne and an irregular menstrual cycle, one needs to consult a doctor.
3. The use of cosmetics is also blamed for leading to acne. It is postulated that cosmetics, particularly oily makeup, block the ducts and cause acne.
4. Stress can lead to hormonal changes.
5. Some of the drugs may lead to acne. Medicines like Dilantin may cause acne.
6. The profession also has a link to the people working in the kitchen over the deep-fat fryers in fast-food restaurants.
7. There is no relationship between food and acne. You can eat chocolates and french fries.

ACNE Management:

1. Never press or rub the acne or manipulate pimples. Because below the surface of the acne is sebum and bacteria, in this area, skin may do scarring or inflammation.
2. Benzoyl peroxide:
   1. You can get over-counter various medications containing benzoyl peroxide. It helps to break the plug of dead skin cells, bacteria, and the oil in the pores.
   2. Start with the lower concentration of benzoyl peroxide. You can increase concentration. You can use it once or twice a day.
   3. Use it for 6 to 8 weeks and see the result
3. Sulfur or resorcinol:
   1. Products Containing these chemicals will unplug the oil glands by irritating the skin.
4. Over-the-counter preventive products can be used. Put this on acne-prone areas, and don’t put on the existing acne.
   1. You can apply it over the face, back, and chest. Avoid lips and eyes.
5. Washing the oily skin with hot water and soap will prevent the formation of acne.
   1. You need to wash your face ten times a day. This washing process will remove the oil from the skin.
   2. Use soap containing benzoyl peroxide, which will dry your skin.
6. Try to wash your face properly and gently. Use mild, unscented soap like Dove or Neutrogena. Rub with your fingers lightly, and don’t use a washcloth. Use warm water.
7. Don’t use oily creams on your hair and face. Most of the moisture is oily.
8. For cosmetics, use water-based make-up material.
9. Some people believe that mild sun exposure prevents acne.
10. Avoid pomade oils and comedogenic cosmetics.
11. Sometimes, you have to give antibiotics like tetracycline (1 to 2 grams/day) or erythromycin (1 gram/day).

What is the Purpose of the treatment?

1. It is to decrease the inflammatory process.
2. To prevent scarring.

What is the prognosis?

1. It is excellent, and there is spontaneous remission.
2. Sometimes, it may continue into adulthood.