Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells,that causes formation of pimples,blackheads and whiteheads.It often appears on face , chest,back,and shoulders.Hormonal changes,Genetics,Certain medication and Bacteria are among the factors that can contribute to Acne.
TYPES OF ACNE
There are several types of acne including:
Blackheads are small bumps that appear on your skin due to oil on your skin and hair follicles irritation.It is very common condition that mostly affects your face ,neck, back and chest. Blackheads are type of acne vulgaris.
2. WHITEHEADS
Whitehead that forms when dead skin cells,oil and bacteria become trapped within one of your pores.It is very common skin condition that mostly affect your face, neck , back and chest.Whiteheads are types of acne vulgaris.
3. PAPULES
Acne papules are small , inflamed bumps in your skin that are usually cone- shaped.It is caused by excess oil in your skin , bacteria,hormones and some medications.They don't have a pus filled tip like other forms of acne.
4. PUSTULES
Pustules are pus-filled bumps with a white or yellow center surrounded by red, inflamed skin.It is due to an infection in the pore cavity.It commonly occure on face , neck, chest , shoulders, underarm,back, pubic area and hairline.
5.NODULES
It is type of inflammatory acne. It causes firm, painful lumps to form under your skin and red bumps to appear on your skin's surface.Nodular acne requires treatment from a healthcare provider.you can't treat this type of acne yourself.Antibiotic and prescription strenght toical creams can help clear up your skin.
6. CYSTS
Cysts are deep, painful, pus-filled lumps beneath the surface of the skin. They are larger than nodules and can cause scarring.The acne cysts are often painful and can be large.A healthcare provider should treat cystic acne to reduce the risk of scarring and infection.Antibiotic and prescription strenght toical creams can help clear up your skin.
7. ACNE CONGLOBATA
This severe form of acne is characterized by interconnected nodules and cysts. It often affects the face, chest, back, buttocks, and upper arms. It can cause severe scarring and may require aggressive treatment.
8. ACNE FULMINANT
This rare and severe form of acne is accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and joint pain. It often occurs suddenly and can lead to severe scarring if left untreated.
9.ACNE MECHANICA
This type of acne is caused by friction, pressure, or heat against the skin. It's commonly seen in athletes who wear equipment that traps heat and sweat against the skin.
10.ACNE ROSACEA
While not technically acne, this condition resembles acne and commonly affects adults over 30. It causes redness, flushing, and small, red, pus-filled bumps on the face.
CAUSES OF ACNE :
1. EXCESS SEBUM PRODUCTION
Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. When these glands produce too much sebum, it can clog pores and lead to acne.
2. CLOGGED PORES
When the skin sheds dead cells, they can mix with sebum and become trapped in the hair follicles, leading to clogged pores
3. HORMONAL CHANGES
Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as those that occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, menopause and PCOD, can increase sebum production and contribute to acne.
4. BACTERIA
Acne is often caused by a combination of factors , including bacteria called propionibacterium ( p.acne) .these bacteria thrive in the hair follicles and contribute to inflammation and acne breakouts.
5.DIET
Diet can play a role managing acne in some people.Dairy products, High glycemic index and foods high in saturated fats might exacerbate acne for some individual .Howewer the impact of diet on acne varies from person to person.
6.STRESS.
Stress can trigger the release of certain hormones that increase sebum production and inflammation, potentially worsening acne.
7.GENETICS
Acne can run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the condition.
8.MEDICATION
Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, androgens, and lithium, can contribute to acne development.
9.COSMETIC AND SKINCARE PRODUCT
Some cosmetics and skincare products can clog pores or irritate the skin, leading to acne breakouts, especially if they are oil-based or comedogenic.
10.ENVIRONMENTAL FACTOR
Exposure to pollutants, humidity, and certain climates can exacerbate acne.
11.FRICTION AND PRESSURE
Wearing tight clothing or equipment that rubs against the skin can cause acne mechanica, a type of acne caused by friction and pressure.
TREATMENT
The treatment of acne depends on several factors, including the type and severity of acne, as well as individual factors such as skin type and medical history. Here are some common treatments for acne:
TOPICAL TREATMENT