What
is Acne?
Acne
is the term for plugged pores (blackheads
and whiteheads), pimples, and even deeper
lumps (cysts or nodules) that occur on
the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders
and even the upper arms. Acne affects
most teenagers to some extent. However,
the disease is not restricted to any age
group; adults in their 20s - even into
their 40s - can get acne. While not a
life threatening condition, acne can be
upsetting and disfiguring. When severe,
acne can lead to serious and permanent
scarring. Even less severe cases can lead
to scarring.
Causes
of Acne?
Acne
develops when one or more of the following
occurs: excess sebum production, rapid production
of P. acnes, skin cells shed too quickly
and/or release of inflammatory substances.
For treatment to work it must interfere
with what is causing the acne. Today’s
acne treatments do one or more of the following:
Decrease sebum production
Reduce P. acnes (bacteria)
Normalize skin shedding
Eliminate inflammation
A
dermatologist may be required. With so many
factorsaffecting clearance and a multitude
of treatment options available (some only
by prescription), a dermatologist’s
help can make a difference. Before prescribing
treatment, dermatologists
consider several factors, including the
severity of the acne, types of lesions present,
co-existing conditions, as well as the patient’s
age, skin type, lifestyle and motivation
