WHAT IS NODULAR ACNE ?
Nodular acne is a severe form of acne .It causes firm , painful lumps to form under your skin and red bumps to appear on your skin's surface.nodular acne characterized by large , inflammed lesion called noules.This nodules are firm , deep seated lumps beneath the surface of the skin.They become when hair follicles clogged with excess oil dead skin cells and bacteria(p.acne) leading to inflammation and formation of painful , swollen nodules.
Nodular acne can last for weeks or even months.they are very painful acne.Nodular acne requires treatment from a dermatologist ( a healthcare provider who specialize in skin).without treatment , this type of pimple can lead to permenant and severe scarring.
CAUSES OF NODULAR ACNE
Nodular acne can develop due to a combination of factors include
1.EXCESS OIL PRODUCTION
Excess oil production by sebaceous gland(sebum) is a common factor in nodular acne.Sebum overproduction can contribute to clogged pores , leading to formation of nodules.Managing oil production through skincare , medications and lifestyle adjustment can help in controlling nodular acne.
2.HORMONAL FLUCTUATIONS
Nodular acne can be influenced by hormonal fluctuations , particularly androgens like testosterone.this fluctuations can increase oil production in the skin leading to formation of nodules.Hormonal changes can occur during puberty , menstruation,pregnancy and even stress can exacerbating nodular acne.
3.BACTERIA
The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a major contributor to acne, including nodular acne. these bacteria thrive in the clogged pores and hair follicles,feeding on the excess oil produced by the skin and triggering an immune response leading to formation of painful , inflamed nodules.
4.GENETICS
A family history of acne can increase the likelihood of developing nodular acne.Certain genetic factors can influence the skin's response to hormones , oil production and inflammation , all of which are contributing factors to the formation of nodular acne.
5.DIETARY FACTOR
While the relationship between diet and acne is complex,is still being researched and not fully understood, certain dietary factors, such as high glycemic index foods and dairy products, may exacerbate acne in some individuals.
6.STRESS
Stress can exacerbate nodular acne.It can stimulate the production of stress hormones like cortisol,which can increase oil production and inflammation leading to nodular acne.Managing sterss through relaxation technique, exercise and adequet sleep can improve nodular acne symptoms.
7.MEDICATIONS
Some medications, such as corticosteroids or certain anticonvulsants, can exacerbate acne as a side effect.
8.COSMETIC AND SKINCARE PRODUCT
Certain makeup or skincare products can clog pores and worsen acne, especially if they are comedogenic.
TREATMENT OF NODULAR ACNE
1.HOME TREATMENT
2.TOPICAL TREATMENT
3.PROFESSIONAL TRETMENT
HOME TREATMENT
While severe cases of nodular acne often require medical intervention, there are some home treatments that may help manage symptoms and promote healing. It's important to note that these approaches may not work for everyone, and severe nodular acne should be evaluated and treated by a dermatologist. Here are some home treatment options for nodular acne.
1.APPLY ICE
Put an ice cube in a towel or clean wash cloth and hold it on the affected area for up to 10 minutes.you can do this several times a day but let your skin rest for 10 minutes in between applying.It can help reduce inflammation and pain.
2.APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
Many people use apple cider vinegar as a home remedy due to its antibacterial properties. some people believe apple cider vinegar may target acne- causing bacteria and help heal the skin. To try this remedy .dilute apple cider vinegar with warm water and apply to the affected skin.
3.TOPICAL TEA TREE OIL
Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial properties that may help reduce acne lesions. Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil ) and apply it sparingly to the affected area. Be cautious, as tea tree oil may cause irritation in some individuals.
4.REDUCING STRESS
Stress hormones in the body may trigger acne breakouts.For this reason minsfullness, meditation or yoga may help reduce breakouts.these activities are known to reduce stress levels and improve well being.
Healthy diet can help manage nodular acne by promoting skin health and reducing inflammation.Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits , vegetables , whole grains and lean proteins.Avoiding sugary snacks , dairy products and processed foods which can exacerbate acne.Aditionally foods rich in antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acid such as salmon , berries ,nuts which help reduce inflammation and also foods rich in Zinc(oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and lentils) and vitamin A (sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, and kale) help reduce oil production and inflammation.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and flush out toxins. Proper hydration can help maintain skin elasticity and reduce the risk of acne breakouts.
6.PROPER SKIN CARE
- Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser can help prevent bacteria from clogging your pores
- Apply a lightweight moisturizer after cleansing your face
- Remove all make up at night .This will reduce oil and bacteria that build up on your skin
- Use a clay mask twice a week to extract oil , bacteria and dead skin cells from your skin
- Avoid touching your face so that you don't transfer bacteria onto your skin
- Always wash your hands before applying cosmetics
- Be sure to wear an SPF 30 sunscreen everyday
TOPICAL TREATMENT
Topical treatments can be an integral part of managing nodular acne by targeting inflammation, reducing bacteria, and preventing clogged pores. Here are some effective topical treatments commonly used for nodular acne.
1.SALISYLIC ACID
It is commonly found in over the counter for nodular acne as cleanser or lotion .It helps remove the top layer of damaged skin. Salisylic acid dissolves dead skin cells to prevent your hair follicles from clogging.
2.BENZOYL PEROXIDE
This is available as an over the counter product.Benzoyl peroxide works by killing acne causing bacteria and reducing inflammation.It is available in various strengths and formulations.Lower concentrations and wash formulations are less irritating to your skin.dryness and irritation is a common side effect.
3.RETINOIDS
Topical retinoids such as tretinoin adapalene and tazarotene , helps to prevent clogged pores.if you may notice a change in skin color or peeling using retinoids every other day or using them at the same time with the moisturizer can reduce this side effect.
4.TOPICAL ANTIBIOTICS
Topical antibiotics such as clindamycin and erythromycin , can help reduce acne causing bacteria on the skin.They are prescribed with combination of other topicals to minimize development of antibiotic resistance.
5.DAPSONE
This is a gel that can help fight inflammation
All medications can have side effect.Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits,risk and drug interaction before starting them.
PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT
1.ISOTRETINOIN
Isotretinoin is first line treatment for severe nodular acne is a synthetic type of vitamin A called isotretinoin. It works by reducing oil production, preventing clogged pores, and decreasing inflammation. Isotretinoin treatment requires close monitoring by a dermatologist due to potential side effects, including dry skin, dry eyes, and birth defects if taken during pregnancy.
2.ORAL ANTIBIOTICS
Antibiotics for nodular acne include doxycycline , minocycline and tetracycline.Oral antibiotics are typically used in combination with topical treatment for maximum effectivness.Antibiotics helps to reduce inflammation and acne causing bacteria.
3.HORMONAL THERAPY (FEMALE)
It helps to manage acne in women due to hormonal acne .Certain types of birth control pills containing hormones like estrogen and progestine can regulate hormone levels and acne breakouts.
4.CORTICOSTEROID INJECTION
Corticosteroid injection can be effective for reducing inflammation and speeding up the healing process of nodular acne.they work by decreasing inflammation within the nodule,which can help to shrink faster.it is important to consult dermatologist before getting such injections.
Chemical peels involves the application of chemical solution such as glycolic acid or salisylic acid to the skin which exfoliate the outer layer and helps unclog pores and reduce acne breakouts.
6.LASER AND LIGHT THERAPY
Laser treatment such as laser resurfacing or intense pulse light therapy can target acne causing bacteria , reduce oil production.Laser treatment help in severe nodular acne.
It's important to consult with a dermatologist to determine the most appropriate professional treatment plan for your nodular acne.