What is Acne?
Acne is a lifelong inflammatory disorder of the skin in which the follicle becomes occluded with secretions of oils (sebum) and keratin debris. Though generally described as a disease of teenagers, acne may occur in other age groups as well. It generally appears as comedones (lesions of the appearance or likeliness of comedones) on the face, chest, back, and the shoulders.
Causes of Acne
Knowing the underlying causes of acne is essential to effective treatment. Among the main elements are:-
- Hormonal Changes - Hormonal variations, particularly during puberty, menstruations, pregnancy, or in the context of certain medical disorders, are known to cause an overproduction of sebum which is at the basis of the acne.
- Excess Sebum Production - Skin sebaceous glands secrete sebum for keeping the skin hydrated. However, excessive production can clog pores and lead to acne.
- Bacterial Growth - The bacterium Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) is a thriving microbe in occluded pores, leading to inflammation and acne vulgaris.
- Dead Skin Cells - If exfoliation of desquamated epidermis is inadequate, desquamated epidermis will get mixed with sebum and fill the hair follicles to the setting that results in acne.
- Diet Lifestyle - Some of the food and environmental factors, e.g., sugar/dairy containing food, stress and inadequate sleep, seem to aggravate acne.
Types of Acne
Acne is not a one-size-fits-all condition. It comes in various forms, including:-
- Comedonal Acne - This entity is characterized by blackheads and whiteheads which are a result of clogged pores.
- Inflammatory Acne - Characterized by red, swollen pimples that are often painful, this type results from bacterial infection and inflammation.
- Cystic Acne - Cystic acne is a severe type, consisting of large, painful, pus- filled cysts that cause scarring.
- Nodular Acne - Nodules are hard, tender lumps under the skin due to blocked inflamed pores.
What Are the Options for Acne Treatment in Delhi?
At our skin clinic, we offer a range of personalized treatments designed to address acne at its root cause. Here are some of the most effective options:-
Topical Treatments
- Retinoids - Vitamin A derivatives that unclog pores and promote skin cell turnover.
- Benzoyl Peroxide - Reduces bacteria and inflammation.
- Salicylic Acid - Helps exfoliate the skin and clear clogged pores.
Oral Medications
- Antibiotics - Reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Hormonal Therapy - Birth control pills or anti-androgens can regulate hormone levels.
- Isotretinoin - A powerful medication for severe, resistant acne.
Professional Procedures
- Chemical Peels - Remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture.
- Laser and Light Therapy - Target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Extraction - Professional removal of blackheads and whiteheads.
- Microneedling - Promotes collagen production and addresses acne scars.
Acne Myths Facts
Myth:-
- Acne Only Affects Teenagers
- Poor Hygiene Causes Acne
- Popping Pimples Helps Them Heal Faster
Fact:-
- Although acne is typical in adolescence, it can occur at all ages, including adulthood.
- Acne is not caused by dirty skin. Over washing, in fact, can aggravate it by causing skin irritation.
- Squeezing pimples can lead to scarring and further inflammation.
