acne causes and treatments
acne causes and treatments are an important topic in skin health. Learn more about acne causes and treatments here.
For many teens and even some adults, acne is a debilitating experience that can lead to shame, depression and a deep level of self-consciousness. Of equal frustration is attempting to heal the skin condition by spending money, time and effort on countless acne products and treatments, only to see zero results. Overcoming these challenges and feeling comfortable again begins by understanding what causes acne and what remedies are available.
What Is Acne and How Does It Form?
When hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria, acne often appears on the face, neck, chest, back or shoulders, forming pimples, blackheads, whiteheads and more severe cysts or nodules. Common acne symptoms include comedones – non-inflammatory acne lesions that are characterized by clogged pores. These can be open blackheads or closed whiteheads. Inflammatory acne can be rendered as red, tender and swollen bumps such as papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. If not treated properly, acne can cause physical discomfort such as tenderness, itching, soreness and scarring.
Main Causes of Acne
According to Lee Yarbrough, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Charleston Dermatology, acne is caused by several factors, starting with the overproduction of sebum, an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands that can mix with dead skin cells and clog pores, providing an ideal environment for the proliferation of bacteria, particularly propionibacterium acnes. Hormonal changes such as those during puberty, menstrual cycles or hormonal disorders can trigger increased sebum production and the formation of acne.
Contributing Factors and Inflammation
Another cause of acne, Dr. Yarbrough explained, is inflammation. He said that when the body’s immune system responds to clogged pores and bacterial infection, redness, swelling and lesions can occur. Other contributing factors may include unregulated stress levels, environmental factors such as high heat and resulting sweat, reaction to medication, disagreement with skin-care products or genetic predisposition
How Common Is Acne and Who Is Affected?
As Dr. Yarbrough pointed out, acne is a common chronic skin condition, targeting 9.4% of the global population. From that demographic, 85% of people affected are between the ages of 12 and 24. The good news is that numerous product and treatment options are available to manage breakouts, based on the severity and individual skin types. An effective strategy for reducing mild acne, he said, can include using over-the-counter topicals such as creams, gels or lotions containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or sulfur.
When to See a Dermatologist
Because everyone’s skin is unique, however, what works for one person may not work for another. Consulting with a dermatologist is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to specific needs by targeting acne’s root causes and developing a personalized plan to promote skin clarity. In more extreme cases, the dermatologist may prescribe stronger topical medications, such as retinoids, antibiotics or combination products. Alternatively, in moderate to severe cases, oral antibiotics such as tetracycline or erythromycin may be prescribed to control bacterial growth and reduce inflammation. For hormonal acne, oral contraceptives or anti-androgen medications can regulate hormone levels and improve symptoms. For stubborn cystic acne that refuses to respond to other treatments, isotretinoin, or accutane, is a potent oral medication that reduces oil production, unclogs pores and keeps acne in check for an extended period of time.
Advanced Acne Treatments
Another treatment that has been known to help clear skin is the chemical peel, which involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin. This exfoliates the top layers, promotes cell turnover and helps unclog pores, improving the appearance of acne and scarring. Additionally, photodynamic therapy and laser therapy are light-based treatments that target the bacteria and oil glands responsible for acne. Consider also exploring advanced treatment options such as laser resurfacing, micro-needling or dermal fillers, which can reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Breakouts
Dr. Yarbrough added that making simple lifestyle changes can sometimes help reduce acne’s causes and symptoms. He suggested a healthy and balanced diet, practicing stress management techniques such as exercise and meditation and adopting a proper sleep schedule. It’s also important to avoid picking or squeezing blemishes, he said, because aside from treatment, allowing acne to heal undisturbed is crucial to clearing up the skin. Plus, disruption can lead to scarring. To prevent scarring from deep inflammation and cyst formation, early intervention is key.
Accessing Dermatology Care
If figuring out a time to book a dermatology appointment is difficult because of a teen’s or parent’s schedule, consider asking your dermatologist if it’s possible to connect through a virtual appointment.
Breaking Free from the Emotional Impact of Acne
As someone who suffered from acne for decades and who is now working with my teen to be preventive, I can attest that by following these tips, glowing skin is within reach. Life is meant to be lived, and hiding behind the physical and psychological effects of acne is not necessary. Take the first step toward healing today and reach out to a dermatologist for guidance.
