Acne
What is acne?
Acne is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition that involves the pilosebaceous unit (hair follicles and oil glands). A variety of spots appear on the face, neck, shoulders, chest and back.
- Inflamed papules and pustules are commonly called spots, pimples and zits
- Dark or skin-colored papules are comedones. These are better known as blackheads and whiteheads
- Acne can lead to secondary skin color changes (red, white and brown patches) and scarring
While acne is most common in adolescents, acne can affect people of all ages and all races. It usually becomes less of a problem after the age of 25 years, although about 15% of women and 5% of men continue to have acne as adults. It may also start in adult life.
Why is acne worse in some people?
Some people have particularly severe acne. This may be because of:
- Genetic factors (family members have bad acne)
- Hormonal factors (higher levels of male/androgenic hormones)
- Environmental factors such as:
- High humidity causing swelling of the skin
- Cosmetics
- Excessive dairy products, meat protein and sugars in the diet.
- Certain medications may provoke acne
- Much of the individual variation in acne severity is due to variation in the innate immune system and the production of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, defensins, peptidases, sebum lipids, and neuropeptides. Evidence has emerged that inflammation leads to distension and occlusion of the hair follicle, which then ruptures
Acne Treatment Programs
Treatment of acne depends on its severity – mild, moderate or severe. Most patients with mild acne can be treated with topical treatment. In addition, oral medication may be prescribed, usually for at least 3–6 months. In Starlight Clinic, we have a series of Acne Treatment Program. Our physician will assist you choosing the best treatment for your acne problem.
General principles of treatment
- Acne can be effectively treated, although response may sometimes be slow
- Where possible, avoid excessively humid conditions such as a sauna, working in an unventilated kitchen or tropical vacations
- Follow a low-glycaemic, low-protein and low-dairy diet. Avoid protein or amino acid supplements, particularly if they contain leucine. Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables
- If you smoke, stop. Nicotine increases sebum retention and increased scale within the follicles, forming comedones (blackheads and whiteheads)
- Minimize the application of oils and cosmetics to the affected skin
- Try not to scratch or pick the spots
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