Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris, or commonly known as acne, is a skin condition characterized by non-inflammatory follicular papules or comedones and by inflammatory papules, pustules, and nodules in its more severe forms.

Areas affected by acne vulgaris include the face, the upper part of the chest, and the back. Severe acne is inflammatory, but acne can also manifest in noninflammatory forms. Acne lesions are commonly referred to as pimples, blemishes, spots, zits, or simply acne. They also can be found on the chest, back and shoulders.

Acne usually are common during adolescence, this affects more than 89% of teenagers, and frequently continues into adulthood. This is because androgen levels tendsto rise up in adolescence. The hormone androgen is linked to the occurrence of acne.

Causes of Acne Vulgaris

• Family/Genetic history.
• Hormonal activity, such as menstrual cycles and puberty.
• Inflammation, skin irritation or scratching of any sort will activate inflammation.
• Stress, through increased output of hormones from the adrenal (stress) glands.
• Hyperactive sebaceous glands, secondary to the three hormone sources above.
• Accumulation of dead skin cells that block or cover pores.
• Bacteria in the pores.
• Use of anabolic steroids.
• Any medication containing lithium, barbiturates or androgens.
• Exposure to certain chemical compounds.
• Exposure to halogens.
• Chronic use of amphetamines or other similar drugs.
• Hormones like androgen

The main physical effect of acne vulgaris is the scarring, which results to some psychological effects. This includes reduced self-esteem and the worst, depression or suicide. Acne usually appears during adolescence, when people already tend to be most socially insecure.

Acne Vulgaris Treatments

1. The ideal treatment process for acne vulgaris is followed by:
2. normalising shedding into the pore to prevent blockage
3. killing Propionibacterium acnes
4. anti-inflammatory effects
5. hormonal manipulation

Different treatment approaches can be used to treat acne. From the most simple to the most invasive include topical creams and ointments, oral medications, and procedures like dermabrassion, and laser therapies. The following are the treatments for acne depending on its severity:

Mild acne (whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples)

• Gentle cleansing using a mild soap
• Applying benzoyl peroxide.
• Applying salicylic acid.
• Antibiotic lotion

Moderate to severe acne (deeper blemishes, such as nodules and cysts)

• Applying benzoyl peroxide.
• Draining of large pimples and cysts by a doctor.
• Applying prescription antibiotic gels, creams, or lotions.
• Applying prescription retinoids.
• Applying azelaic acid.
• Taking prescription oral antibiotics.
• Taking prescription oral retinoids (such as Accutane).

Prevention

• Measures to prevent the acne from getting worse should be followed.
• Gently wash and care for your skin every day.
• Try to keep your hair off of your face.
• Avoid hair care products such as gels, mousses, cream rinses, and pomades that contain a lot of oil.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Avoid exposure to oils and harsh chemicals, such as petroleum.
• Avoid long periods of time in sunlight, as this doesn't help acne and can increase your risk of skin cancer. Use sunscreens when you are out in the sun.