Acne occurs when sebaceous glands get clogged. Millions of Americans are affected annually by this disease. Though it is common among teenagers, it can affect people of all age groups. Acne can even occur in adult women due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, changes in menstrual cycle or with birth control pills. There are many types of acne and
acne vulgaris is the most common form of acne that affects almost eighty five percent of the population. It is characterized by blackheads, whiteheads, deeper lumps, pimples, zits and outbreaks of lesions. It can be found in the arm, chest, back, and face.
Excessive oil is produced with the increase in hormone levels especially androgen hormone. These oils which help to keep the skin moist enter into the dead skin cells resulting in
acne vulgaris. As the skin gets infected and the area becomes inflamed pustules, redness and swelling develop. Some of the reasons that trigger acne vulgaris are:
Use of certain cosmetics
Medications which include steroids, iodides, and lithium
Excess androgen and polycystic ovary syndrome
Genetic factors
Acne vulgaris can be classified into inflammatory, non-inflammatory and secondary lesion.
Inflammatory
Cysts papules
Pustules
Scars
Non-inflammatory
Whiteheads
Blackheads
Secondary lesions
Pigmented macules
Scars
Scratched spots
Erythematous macules
Nodules
Acne vulgaris can be mild and severe. Mild to moderate acne includes whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules. Severe acne includes nodules and cysts. There are various types of treatment available for
acne vulgaris. Mild acne like pimples, blackheads and whiteheads can be treated using benzoyl peroxide. In some case antibiotics can be used for the treatment. Topical retinoids are anti-inflammatory and should be applied once daily to dry and clean skin. High intensity light wave therapy, laser therapy, and azelaic acid can be used for treating severe
acne. Some home remedies have also been found useful. They include washing of the affected skin twice daily, avoiding squeezing or touching the affected area with dirty hands, using water based skin products and avoiding products containing oil.
