Acne
Acne advice for sufferers of all ages
Acne is something everyone experiences, but severe acne is a serious condition that requires complex treatment to control. While there is no way to completely cure acne, certain methods and treatments can help minimize breakouts and improve skin's overall health.
Understanding the different types of acne is the first step toward building a treatment plan. The most common types of acne include:
- Acne Vulgaris. This includes whiteheads (oil and bacteria trapped under the skin), blackheads (partially blocked pores that allow some oil and bacteria to escape to the surface), papules (inflamed, often painful red bumps) and pustules (inflamed red bumps with a white or yellow centre that contains pus).
- Cystic Acne. Cystic acne is a severe form of acne vulgaris in which the nodules are much larger than ordinary pimples. The nodules can be quite painful and can result in acne scars.
- Acne Rosacea. Acne rosacea is a combination of two skin problems: acne vulgaris and rosacea, a red rash that typically occurs on the forehead, chin, cheeks and nose. The condition typically presents with a combination of red rash and pimples.
Causes and Symptoms of Acne
Acne occurs when the skin's follicles become blocked with oil and bacteria. Though there is no known cause for the condition itself, triggers for breakouts include hormone changes, stress and improper skin care. It's often associated with people who have oily skin, but those with normal and dry skin can experience acne as well.
Medications like birth control, anti-seizure medications and many more can also cause acne breakouts. If you're concerned that a medication you're taking may be causing your acne, consult a doctor for acne advice and treatment options.
Treatment for Acne
Treatment for acne will vary depending on the type of acne you have, so it's always best to consult a doctor before starting any treatment for a serious acne problem. Topical ointments are often a starting point for treatment plans. These might include benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, azelaic acid, topical antibiotics or a combination of these products.
Oral antibiotics and hormone therapy are other treatment options, often used in more serious acne cases.
