Acne

🔍 Causes of Acne
1. Excess Sebum Production
Hormonal changes (like puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy) increase oil production, making the skin more prone to clogging.

2. Clogged Hair Follicles
Dead skin cells and oil block the pores, trapping bacteria inside.

3. Bacterial Infection
Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) bacteria multiply in clogged pores, causing inflammation and pus.

4. Hormonal Changes
Androgens (male hormones present in both sexes) increase oil production. Hormonal imbalances in PCOS, stress, or certain medications can trigger or worsen acne.

5. Other Contributing Factors
Genetics (family history)

Diet (high glycemic index foods, dairy in some people)

Stress

Heavy makeup or greasy skincare

Sweating, humidity, or tight clothing

🔍Types of Acne Lesions

Type Description Severity
Comedones
Blackheads (open) or whiteheads (closed) Mild
Papules
Small red, inflamed bumps Mild to moderate
Pustules
Pimples with pus Moderate
Nodules
Large, hard, painful bumps under the skin Severe
Cysts
Deep, pus-filled lumps; can scar Severe


💊 Treatment Options for Acne
Acne treatments depend on severity, type, and skin sensitivity. Treatments can be topical, oral, procedural, or a combination.

🔹 1. Topical Treatments (Applied to Skin)
✅ Best for mild to moderate acne

a. Benzoyl Peroxide
Kills acne-causing bacteria

Reduces inflammation

Commonly used in gels, cleansers, and creams

b. Salicylic Acid
Helps exfoliate and unclog pores

Often used in face washes and toners

c. Topical Retinoids (e.g., Adapalene, Tretinoin)
Promote cell turnover, prevent clogged pores

May initially cause dryness or irritation

d. Topical Antibiotics (e.g., Clindamycin, Erythromycin)
Reduce bacteria and inflammation

Often combined with benzoyl peroxide to prevent resistance

🔹 2. Oral Medications
✅ Best for moderate to severe or hormonal acne

a. Antibiotics (e.g., Doxycycline, Minocycline)
Reduce inflammation and bacterial growth

Used for short-term periods (to prevent resistance)

b. Hormonal Therapy (for women)
Birth control pills: Regulate hormones that trigger excess oil

Spironolactone: Blocks androgens, reduces oil production

c. Isotretinoin (Accutane)
A powerful oral retinoid for severe, scarring, or resistant acne

Shrinks oil glands permanently

Requires careful monitoring (can cause side effects and birth defects)

🔹 3. Professional or In-Clinic Treatments
a. Chemical Peels
Use acids (like salicylic, glycolic, or TCA) to exfoliate and unclog pores

Good for comedonal acne and post-acne marks

b. Laser & Light Therapy
Kills bacteria and reduces oil production

Can help reduce inflammation and scarring

c. Microneedling
Improves skin texture and acne scarring

d. Extraction
Manual removal of blackheads and whiteheads by a dermatologist or trained esthetician

e. Corticosteroid Injections
For large, painful nodules or cysts to reduce swelling quickly

🧴 Skincare for Acne-Prone Skin
Use a gentle cleanser twice daily

Avoid scrubbing or using harsh products

Choose non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) moisturizers and sunscreens

Avoid touching or popping pimples

Remove makeup before bed

Use oil-free, fragrance-free products