Understanding Acne

Acne is a very common skin condition that affects hair follicles and sebaceous glands. It manifests through the appearance of various types of skin lesions, primarily on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders.

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Causes

What causes acne?

Acne results from a combination of factors that affect hair follicles and sebaceous glands.

1 Excessive sebum production (seborrhea): Sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, making the skin oily.
2 Hair follicle obstruction: Dead skin cells and excess sebum can clog pores.
3 Bacterial proliferation: A bacterium, Propionibacterium acnes (now called Cutibacterium acnes), which normally lives on the skin, can multiply in clogged follicles and cause inflammation.
4 Inflammation: The body's immune response to these bacteria and the accumulation of sebum and dead cells leads to redness and swelling.

Affected population

Who is affected by acne?

Although acne is often associated with adolescence due to hormonal changes, it can affect people of all ages.

Adolescents

This is the most affected group, with about 80% of teenagers suffering from it to varying degrees. Hormones (androgens) play a major role by stimulating sebaceous glands.

Adults

Acne can persist into adulthood (persistent acne) or appear for the first time in adulthood (late-onset acne), especially in women, often linked to hormonal fluctuations.

Symptoms

What are the manifestations of acne?

Acne can present in different forms, from mild to severe.

1.Open comedones (blackheads)

Small black spots on the skin, caused by clogged follicles where the opening is exposed to air and excess sebum oxidizes, giving a black color.

2.Closed comedones (whiteheads)

Small skin-colored or white bumps, where the follicle is completely obstructed under the skin surface.

3.Papules

Small red and tender bumps, signs of inflammation.

4.Pustules

Small red bumps with a white center of pus, indicating more advanced inflammation.

5.Nodules

Large solid and painful bumps under the skin surface, resulting from deep inflammation.

6.Cysts

Large painful lesions, filled with pus, located deep under the skin. These severe forms can leave scars.

Solutions

How is acne treated?

Acne treatment depends on its severity and can include different approaches.

Topical treatments: Creams, gels, or lotions containing benzoyl peroxide, retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene), topical antibiotics, or azelaic acid.
Oral treatments: Antibiotics (tetracyclines) to reduce inflammation and bacteria, isotretinoin (for severe and resistant cases), or hormonal treatments for women.
Dermatological procedures: Comedone extractions, chemical peels, light or laser therapies.

Need help with your acne?
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