Acne Active

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to inflammation and the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Acne is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:

Overproduction of oil: Hormonal changes during puberty and other times of hormonal imbalance can cause the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce too much oil, which can clog pores and lead to acne.

Bacteria: The bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is found on the skin and can multiply in clogged pores, leading to inflammation and acne.

Inflammation: When pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, it can cause inflammation in the skin, leading to redness, swelling, and the formation of pimples and other types of acne.

Diet: While the link between diet and acne is not fully understood, some studies have suggested that diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates may contribute to acne.

Stress: Stress can cause hormonal imbalances that can contribute to the development of acne.

Certain medications: Some medications, such as steroids, can cause acne as a side effect.

What treatments are available for acne?

There are several acne treatments available, depending on the severity of the acne and the individual’s skin type. Here are some common acne treatments:

Topical treatments: Topical treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids are applied directly to the skin and work by reducing inflammation and unclogging pores.

Oral medications: In cases of more severe acne, oral medications such as antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or isotretinoin may be prescribed.

Chemical peels: Chemical peels can help improve acne by exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria that can contribute to acne.

Light therapy: Light therapy uses blue or red light to kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.

Extraction: A trained aesthetician can perform extractions to manually remove blackheads and whiteheads.

Lifestyle changes: Certain lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction can also help improve acne.

It’s important to consult with your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your specific acne concerns, as some treatments may not be suitable for all skin types or may have side effects. It’s also important to avoid picking or squeezing acne, as this can lead to scarring and further inflammation.