Acne: Understanding the Cause and Treatment
Acne is a very common skin disease that usually appears during adolescence or youth in 85% of cases. It is characterized by the appearance of pimples. These pimples are formed because the hair follicles under the skin are plugged, causing them to become inflamed and infection of the follicular pore occurs.
Although acne can affect anyone, it usually affects mainly adolescents and young adults, as mentioned before. There are some special forms of acne, such as occupational acne, that can affect adults who are exposed to certain industrial products. Acne can also occur in newborns or drug-induced acne, which is suffered by people who take certain medications, such as oral corticosteroids.
Causes of acne or why it occurs
The exact cause of why acne occurs is unknown, although in most cases it is related to hormonal changes, such as those that occur during adolescence, menstruation or pregnancy. Other causes can be that the glands secrete sebum in excess, the use of some cosmetics and products for oily hair, the administration of some drugs and excessive sweating.
We also know that some people are genetically more prone than others to blemishes and that certain medications, smoking, stress, and poor skincare can make acne worse. There is also evidence of a correlation between diet and acne-prone skin.
It is sometimes claimed that chocolate or fatty foods can cause acne, but there is no evidence to prove it. Stress doesn't cause acne, but it can make it worse.
Can it be prevented?
Although there is no way to prevent acne, you can take some care with your skin to reduce the number and severity of the lesions. The main thing is to wash the skin daily to avoid excess oil and remove dead skin cells. Once the first symptoms are detected, proper hygiene, hydration and treatment products must be used.
What does the treatment consist of?
Treatment for acne depends on the extent of the disease and the severity of the lesions. Specialists advise starting treatment early to try to avoid possible scars. An excellent form of Acne treatment is the use of Rozez gel and cream, differin cream and skinoren, all can be purchased online in the UK at the pharmacy planet online store.
Authored By
HARMINDER ‘HARMY’ KAUR
BSc(hons) Pharmacy
GPhC Number: 2061107
Reviewed By
GURDEV SEHMI
BSc Pharm, MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber, Superintendent Pharmacist, Clinical Lead
GPhC Number: 2050925