ACNE (PIMPLES)

ACNE (PIMPLES)

• Acne is chronic inflammatory disease of the sebum producing unit.
• Acne is considered as a chronic disease due to its prolonged course,pattern of recurrence and relapse and manifestations.
• Acne has significant psychological and social burden on the quality of life.

95% Boys n >85% Girls experience acne during their teenage yrs approximately.50% continue to suffer from acne in adulthood.

ADULT ACNE:

The development of acne involves a complex interaction between the main factors such as

Stress,Medication,Smoking,Endocrine diseases,Diet,Changes in sebum which increases the activity of sebaceous glands,Propinobacterium acne inflammation.

• There are 2 maintypes of adult acne Persistent acne: that continues from adolescence to adulthood often with remission periods.This subtype is the mmost common.

Late onset acne: This begins long after puberty between 21 to 25yrs. Seen in about 20%.Women with late onset acne have less comedones.

HORMONES: Androgens play a key role in stimulating sebum production,pore clogging,inflammation and lead to development of severe acne. POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME account for over 90% cases of androgen excess.

• Hormone related acne is usually seen along the jaw line,chin.

BACK ACNE /TRUNCAL ACNE

Its possible to develop both inflammatory and non inflammatory acne on the back.

Inflammatory lesions will be red and swollen.

Non inflammatory will be blackheads & whiteheads.

Common causes of acne breakout includes soaps,moisturisers with oils in them,hair products with sulphates,sweat, exposure to sunlight, shoulder pads,and other sporting equipment.

SKIN CARE TIPS FOR ADULT ACNE:

• Moisturiser should be used in the morning regardless of skin type.
• Aqueous non comedogenic moisturisers containing minimal allergenic ingredients are recommended.
• Use if UVA/UVB sunscreen is recommended for all patients.
• All skin care products and cosmetics should be anti comedonal and oil free.
• Avoid overly drying cleansers as they increase the likelihood of enhancing irritation.
• Gently wash as soon as possible after significant perspiration and wear loose fitting,absorbent clothing.
• Skin needs varies with changing seasons.Skin tends to b drier in winter and oily in summer. Skin care products that are more drying and irritating such as toners,astringents,are better tolerated in summers

HOW TO PREVENT ACNE????SOME SOLUTIONS:

• All adult acne patients use gentle,non soap cleanser and non comedogenic and oil free moisturiser.
• Avoid touching acne or other facial eruptions with hands spreading infection further.
• Keep your hair falling on your face.Dirt and oils increase acne.
• Do not use oil based make up.
• Use only non comedogenic products.
• Follow your skin care regimen diligently.
• Eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water to wash of toxins from the body.
• Take sufficient essential fatty acids.Body needs omega3,6 & 9 fatty acids.
• Regular exercise &adequate sleep.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Reduce the stress level if possible.
• Avoid sugary,iodized food,coffee and carbonated drinks.
• Stop smoking as it makes skin dry up and break easily.
• Wear soft cotton clothes to get relief from itching and irritation of acne on your back and shoulders.
• Shower immediately after excercises.
• Use a clean pillowcase.
• Consult a dermatologist to treat severe outbreaks of acne.