Acne: Ways to Control It

Acne: Ways to Control It

What causes acne?
Clogged folicle
Acne commonly starts in the early teen years, when the oil glands in the
body start making more sebum (oil). Some people also have too many "sticky"
skin cells. In people who have acne, these cells mix with the oil and plug
up the hair follicles in the skin.
A "whitehead" results when the hair follicle is plugged with oil and skin
cells. If this plug reaches the surface of the skin and the air touches it,
it turns black and is called a "blackhead." A blackhead isn't caused by
dirt.
If the wall of a plugged follicle breaks, the area swells and turns into a
red bump. If the follicle wall breaks near the skin surface, the bump
usually becomes a pimple. If the wall breaks deep in the skin, acne nodules
or cysts can form. This is called "cystic acne."

Things that often make acne worse
* Oil-based makeup, suntan oil, hair gels and sprays
* In women: menstruation
* Squeezing or picking at blemishes
* Hard scrubbing of the skin

Things that don't cause acne
* Dirt
* Foods such as chocolate or french fries
* Sexual activity
* Masturbation

Who gets acne?
Both men and women get acne. But it may be worse in men because they have
more skin oils.
Heredity also plays a role. If your mother and father had bad acne, you may
too.
Your immune system plays a role too. Some people are extra sensitive to the
bacteria that get trapped in their hair follicles.

How can acne be treated?
Acne can be treated in different ways. Talk with your doctor about the
options.

Can an over-the-counter acne product help?
Yes. Benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid and sulfur are the most
common over-the-counter medications used to treat acne. Each works a little
differently. These medications are available in many forms, such as gels,
lotions, creams, soaps or pads.
In some people, over-the-counter acne medications may cause side effects
such as skin irritation, burning or redness. Tell your doctor if you have
side effects that are severe or that don't go away over time.
Keep in mind that it can take between 4 and 8 weeks before you notice an
improvement in your skin. If an over-the-counter acne product doesn't seem
to help after 2 months, get advice from your doctor.

What can my doctor prescribe?
Your doctor may recommend antibiotics, which can be very effective for
treating acne. They can be taken by mouth, or used on the skin in a lotion,
cream or gel.
Retinoids, such as tretinoin and adapalene, are other medicines for treating
acne. They are usually rubbed onto the skin once a day. Be sure not to get
them near your eyes, mouth and the area under your nose.
If you use a retinoid, you must avoid the sun or use a strong sunscreen
because this medicine increases your risk of getting a very bad sunburn.
Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not use a retinoid
called tazarotene because it can cause birth defects.

How is severe cystic acne treated?
Isotretinoin may be used to treat severe cystic acne that doesn't get better
with other treatments. It's a pill that is taken once a day by mouth for 15
to 20 weeks.
In women, isotretinoin can cause very serious side effects such as birth
defects and miscarriages. It should never be taken during pregnancy or even
1 month before pregnancy. Women must use 2 types of birth control or not
have sex while they take isotretinoin, as well as 1 month before they start
and 1 month after they stop taking it.
There is a possibility that other serious side effects may occur, so people
taking isotretinoin should be closely monitored by their doctor.

Does acne cause scars?
Acne, especially cystic acne, can cause scars in some people. You can help
reduce scarring by not squeezing or picking at blemishes. Also, avoid
scrubbing your skin. If you do get scars, treatments are available. (AAFP)