Acne

What Is It?

Acne is a condition that affects people of all ages. Most commonly, people experience acne in their teens as a result of hormonal changes during puberty. Many adults experience acne for reasons relating to hormones, bacterial infections, and heredity. Most acne appears on the face, but it can also appear anywhere else on the body, especially on the chest, shoulders, and back. Acne can appear as one spot or as a cluster of blemishes that have varying degrees of inflammation. Lesions can be called pimples, blemishes, spots, and zits. Lesions may be cystic or filled with pus.

Types

The term acne incorporates more than just pimples and includes two broad types: inflamed acne and non-inflamed acne. Non-inflamed acne can be soft, hard, open, and even invisible if located below the skin. Inflamed acne produces papules, which are red and inflamed spots on the skin. Most papules do not include pus. Pustules are red and inflamed spots that contain a white head. Nodules are painful, begin deep in the skin, and can cause infection or scarring. Cysts are located under the skin and filled with fluid.

Symptoms & Warning Signs

The first sign of acne can be one or many bumps on the skin. Acne might not be red and only include hard bumps or whiteheads. Red bumps or patches are other beginning signs. Commonly affected areas include the face, back, and chest. Regardless, acne can develop anywhere on the body.

Causes & Risk Factors

Genetics and heredity are the primary risk factors of acne. Overactive sebaceous (oil) glands are the leading physical cause for acne. An excess of oil is produced, and some becomes trapped in pores that cause breakouts. Medications and hormonal changes cause acne. For the most part, it is a myth that greasy food, dirt, and makeup cause acne.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to keep the skin clean, since the buildup of oil can clog the pores and lead to breakouts. Many over the-counter products, especially those containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are effective in controlling minor breakouts. A dermatologist may prescribe oral or topical medications. Prescribed medications are typically antibiotics.

Tests & Diagnosis

Acne can be diagnosed visually. A dermatologist is a specialist who is trained to look at the skin and diagnose acne conditions. A dermatologist can assess the extent of damage and direct patients towards the right drugs and treatment plan.