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Acne The National Skin Centre

www.thenationalskincentre.com09811300536

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin disorder resulting from the action of hormones on the skin’s oil glands (sebaceous glands) which leads to plugged pores and outbreaks of the lesions of papules, pustules, comedones, inflammatory cysts commonly called pimples.

Who gets Acne?

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Almost everyone has acne at some time in life.

Acne is not just restricted to teenagers. People in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s and even older are often threatened by acne.

People who have bad acne often have family members with the same problem.

How does Acne Occur?

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The skin pores can become clogged with excess of skin cells

Bacteria grows in these clogged pores and when the body works to kill the bacteria, inflammation occurs resulting in acne lesions forming in these area.

What causes Acne?

Exact cause of acne is unknown. Several factors may play a role.

One important factor is an increase in androgens (male hormones). These increase in both boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum.

What causes Acne?

Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes) are the anaerobic bacteria responsible for causing acne.

Other factors: heredity or genetics; medications, androgens, lithium; greasy cosmetics; occlusive clothing

Hormone changes related to pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills can also be a cause of acne.

Severity

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There are three kinds of acne:MildModerateSevere

What can make Acne worse?

Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women 2-7 days before their menstrual period starts

Friction by rubbing skinPressure from helmets, backpacksEnvironment: pollution and high humiditySqueezing or picking at pimplesHard scrubbing of the skin

Myths about causes of Acne

Foods; chocolate, greasy or fried foods. No foods cause acne.

Dirt. Acne is not the result of uncleanliness or infrequent washing.

Stress. Just the opposite, Acne may cause the patient more stress.

Sunlight or tanning clears acne. No. Tanning will lead to sundamaged skin, wrinkles and skin cancers.

Skin must be scrubbed. No, too much scrubbing may actually make acne worse.

What is the best way to clean my skin?

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Wash your face twice daily with mild soap and water.

Don’t be too rough while washing and avoid astringents and abrasives as they can cause skin irritation and in general don’t help improve acne.

Does sun exposure improve acne?

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Yes, moderate sun exposure is beneficial but a sunburn will do more harm than good.

Use of a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 is recommended.

Will squeezing or picking pimplescause scars?

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Yes, squeezing a pimple may cause the contents of the follicle to rupture into the tissue rather than being expressed to the surface of the skin. This can cause tissue damage and scarring.

How can I take care of myself?

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Don’t squeeze, pick, scratch or rub your skin. Scars may form if you squeeze your pimples.

Don’t rest your face on your hands when you read, study or watch TV.

Pull your hair away from your face when you sleep. Style it away from your face during the day.

Avoid getting sunburn.Get physical exercise regularly.

Skin care

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If you tend to have oily hair or dandruff you might benefit from a dandruff shampoo.

Also avoid face creams or oils.If you wear make-up use dry powder or

hypoallergenic, water-base make-up.Avoid oil-based hair tonics.

What are the goals in treating Acne?

Heal existing lesionsStop new lesions from formingPrevent scarringMinimize the psychological stress and

embarrassment, thus improving self-esteem and self-confidence and avoiding depression

Teach the patient what acne is, how to treat their acne and what to expect from treatment

How is acne treated?

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Acne is treated with topical and oral medicines.

Some topical acne medicines may irritate your skin, especially in the first few weeks that you use them. Mild moisturizing lotions and soaps can help stop the irritation.