Acne is a common skin condition that leads to pimples, whiteheads, blackheads or cysts. Acne is formed when the hair follicles get clogged with dead skin cells, dirt, excess skin oil (sebum), etc.; it is sometimes associated with bacterial infection. Though this condition can happen at any age, it mainly occurs during puberty. The various types of acne are open comedones (blackheads), closed comedones (whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. Blackheads appear dark as they are formed due to the accumulation of oxidised sebum. Inflammatory acne (papules) often causes swelling and redness, forming pustules (pus-filled pimples). The most severe of the lot is cystic acne, where large painful cysts form under the skin.
Causes of Acne
One of the primary causes that result in acne formation is hormonal change that happens during menstruation, puberty, pregnancy and other medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The production of androgen hormones increases during puberty, making the sebaceous gland produce more oil (sebum).
When this oil gets mixed with dead skin cells and dirt, a bacteria-friendly atmosphere is created, triggering acne formation. The imbalance in oestrogen and progesterone hormones caused by PCOS and menstruation is also primarily responsible for outbursts of acne.
Studies have proven that a diet containing high sugar, processed meat, refined carbohydrates and dairy products worsens acne. The foods with high glycemic index, like white bread, sugary drinks, etc., cause a spike in the insulin level, leading to excess sebum production and skin inflammation.
Along with this, poor lifestyle choices like smoking, alcohol consumption, inadequate sleep, too much stress, etc., also exacerbate acne formation. Stress leads to an increase in cortisol levels that influence the sebaceous glands, resulting in more oil production and less sleep, which impairs the skin's natural repairing process. However, acne formation can also be a result of inherited genes. So, a person with a family history of acne is prone to develop it as well.
Preventive Measures for Acne
It is always wise to take preventive measures rather than wait for the outburst. Some effective skincare routines to prevent acne are:
Skin cleansing twice a day after sweating
Not using harsh exfoliants
No picking or popping the pimples
Routinely washing anything that comes in contact with the skin
Opting for oil-free, non-comedogenic products
Keeping the hair clean as oil in the hair can also affect the skin
Washing your hands frequently
A healthy and balanced diet plays a crucial role in preventing acne. So, intake of foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants reduces the risk of acne. Also, omega-3 fatty acids largely control acne flare-ups. It is available in fish, flaxseeds and walnuts. Again, zinc reduces the formation of oil, helping the skin to heal. Foods rich in zinc are whole grains, nuts and seeds. However, to prevent acne, good health is essential. So, consuming fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin A (like spinach and carrots) and drinking plenty of water is necessary.
Today’s busy and stressful lifestyle is also primarily responsible for the acne outbreak. So, to maintain healthy skin, some changes need to be incorporated into daily habits.
Regular exercise
Sufficient sleep
Staying well hydrated
Regular meditation
Regular cleansing
Using the right moisturiser
Avoiding tight clothing
Topical Treatments for Acne
Generally, mild acne is harmless and can be treated without a doctor’s prescription. Various over-the-counter formulations are available that can easily combat the outbreak and are relatively inexpensive. Generally, these products are typically applied to the skin and are not taken orally or through injection. Some examples are:
Salicylic acid: Helps exfoliate the skin and unclogs the pores. This is good for whiteheads and blackheads.
Benzoyl peroxide: Fights the acne bacteria and reduces inflammation.
Azelaic acid: Treats both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne without any side effects.
Adapalene (Differin): Being a topical retinoid, this prevents clogging of the pores.
However, a doctor’s intervention becomes essential when the acne becomes severe. In such cases, the doctor generally advises some common prescription medications depending on the severity. Examples are:
Antibiotics like tetracyclines
Oral retinoids (Isotretinoin)
Hormonal therapy
Oral Medications For Acne
When the acne becomes severe and does not respond to topical treatments, oral medications become necessary to combat the flare-up. The most common treatment rendered is with antibiotics. The primary bacteria that causes acne is Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), which thrives in the sebaceous glands and clogged hair follicles. Antibiotics kill this bacteria and prevent new outbreaks. However, they must be taken only for a limited period. Some commonly used oral antibiotics are:
Doxycycline
Minocycline
Tetracycline
Another popular method of treating acne is hormonal treatment. Here, by using birth control pills, the fluctuation of the hormone level is controlled. Some examples are:
Anti-androgen Drugs: This decreases the production of androgen hormones and controls acne.
Combination Birth Control Pills: This contains both oestrogen and progesterone that reduces sebum production and acne flare-ups.
Consult Top Dermatologists For Acne Treatments
Non-Medical Treatments for Acne
Non-medical treatments are quite popular amongst people who seek natural and gentler options without any side effects. Nowadays, light therapy is doing wonders. The red LED light therapy can help reduce inflammation, stimulating the production of a collagen protein that gives younger-looking skin. However, blue LED light therapy is of more benefit as it destroys acne-causing bacteria.
Professional procedures like chemical peels and microdermabrasion can also effectively combat acne. Chemical peels are considered in severe cases, while microdermabrasion can be helpful in milder cases of acne and surface exfoliation.
In chemical peeling, a chemical solution, based on the skin type, is applied to the skin that may cause a mild and controlled burning sensation. This exfoliates the top layer, exposing the new, smoother skin from underneath. Salicylic acid, glycolic acid and trichloroacetic acid are the common peel agents.
In microdermabrasion, the skin surface is gently abraded using tiny crystals with a handheld device. It helps to remove the dead skin and debris.
Natural and Home Remedies
Some individuals prefer natural and home remedies to cure acne. This works best in mild cases and has almost negligible side effects. It has a gentle impact on the skin, is easily accessible and pocket-friendly and can be used according to one’s preference.
Some popular home remedies for acne are:
Turmeric
Aloe vera
Lemon juice
Honey
Apple cider vinegar
Tea tree oil
Ice
However, these natural treatments should be incorporated only if the acne condition is mild. So, consulting a dermatologist before applying anything on the skin is always wise. Performing a patch test is also essential before starting treatment with natural remedies.
Managing Acne Scars
Scars are left on the skin after an acne breakout. These occur mainly when the skin is damaged during the healing process due to picking and squeezing the pimples and inflammation. Various types of acne scars are there. The severity of each one depends on the type of acne and how the skin has healed. The types are:
Boxcar Scars: These are round or oval-shaped depressions with distinct edges.
Rolling Scars: These are wide and shallow, looking like broad, low hills.
Hypertrophic Scars: These are scars that are raised above the skin’s surface.
Keloid Scars: These extend beyond the original wound area and are raised, firm and red or darkened.
Ice Pick Scars: These are narrow and deep scars and look like small puncture holes in the skin.
Some treatment options to reduce these scars are:
Dermabrasion
Laser resurfacing
Skin needling
Fillers
Emotional and Mental Health Impact
There are extensive psychological effects of acne on individuals, especially when it is severe. They may suffer from low self-esteem, depression, social anxiety, increased stress, bullying and peer pressure, difficulty with relationships, etc. So, to remain healthy mentally and emotionally, practicing skincare routine consistently, managing stress, meditating, deep breathing, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet and communicating openly with loved ones is essential.
Conclusion
Acne is a relatively common but harmless condition that many people experience at once or another. Mild cases can be quickly handled with regular cleaning practices like washing the face daily with a gentle cleanser, avoiding irritants like harsh soaps or alcohol-based toners, wearing sunscreen with SPF 30, using shampoo regularly, etc. It is always better to focus on prevention than cure. A dermatologist consultation is necessary to prevent further damage if the case is severe. However, it is always wise to consistently maintain a healthy skincare regime so one can lead a happy and blessed life.
Consult Top Dermatologists
Consult Top Dermatologists
Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
(200+ Patients)
Dr Ritika Shanmugam
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. K Chetana
Dermatologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Telangana, Hyderabad
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy
Dermatologist
23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)
Hyderabad
JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Mayuri Jain
Dermatologist
11 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology , Venereology & Leprosy
Delhi
Dr Mayuri Jain Clinic, Delhi
Consult Top Dermatologists For Acne Treatments
Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
(200+ Patients)
Dr Ritika Shanmugam
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. K Chetana
Dermatologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Telangana, Hyderabad
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy
Dermatologist
23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)
Hyderabad
JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Mayuri Jain
Dermatologist
11 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology , Venereology & Leprosy
Delhi
Dr Mayuri Jain Clinic, Delhi
