Acne Treatment

Basic Facts about Acne

Acne treatment is one of the most sought after skin treatment problems. Commonly known as pimples, acne is a skin condition that is caused by inflammation in the skin. The medical term for acne is acne vulgaris. It had been estimated that about 17 million people had been affected by pimples. Majority of them acquire the pimples between the age of 12 and 25. Normally, it occurs during the time of puberty and worsens during the period of adolescence. The oil producing glands, termed as sebaceous glands, lying under the surface of the skin, produce sebum. This oily secretion helps the skin to preserve the hair flexibility and moisture on the skin.

Puberty and Acne

During puberty, the sebum excretion is much higher and would clog the pores in the skin. When the plugged follicle is invaded by a bacteria living on the skin, known as Propionibacterium acnes, or other microorganisms present in the skin, the enzymes and chemicals produced by the bacteria create inflammation on the skin.

Diagnosis of Acne

The physician would examine the face, shoulders, chest, upper neck, and back, as well as other affected areas. The physician would also take the medical history of the patient. The surgeon would determine whether the blemishes are inflamed, whether the blemishes are superficial or deep, and whether there is any skin discoloration or scarring. Blood tests and stool tests would also be done. Understanding the skin condition is very important in the cure of acne treatment.

Treatment of Acne

Depending on the severity of the pimples or acne, the physician would use benzoyl peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Creams like azelaic acid or vitamin A derivates like retinoid or retin A could also be used for acne treatment. Salicylic acid, accutane, antibiotics, and anti-androgens are also quite effective in the treatment of acne.

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