Acne occurs when the channels that secrete sebum, that is, oil, in the middle layer of the skin become blocked, swell, and then become inflamed with bacteria. Blackheads (comedones) occur as a result of increased oil secretion on the skin and clogging of the pores. These comedones are then invaded by bacteria and raised red and inflammatory bumps form on the skin. Excessively large ones leave scars on the skin.
Acne usually begins in adolescence and can last until the thirties and forties. There is also a benign type of acne specific to infancy. It is more common in men than in women. Most frequently; It is seen in the face, back, arms and chest areas.
What are the factors affecting acne formation?
In acne formation; Genetics, nutrition, environmental factors and hormones play a role. The role of the testosterone hormone is known in both genders. In some cases, the testosterone hormone is excessive, while in some cases, testosterone is normal, but the response of the fat cells to testosterone is excessive. If one of the parents has acne, it makes it easier for their children to develop acne. Some medications, especially hormone medications, have acne-enhancing properties. In some cases, excessive oiliness of the skin is the main factor. Poor quality cosmetic products and excessively fatty foods can increase acne. The intensity of acne may also increase in autumn and winter.
What are the Acne Types?
Acne Vulgaris is simple acne that is usually seen in adolescents. They are mostly seen on the face. It is in the form of black dots and yellow closed papules. Large nodules and cysts are usually not seen. Scar development can be minimized with early treatment.
Acne Conglabata is a type of acne characterized by severe cysts and abscesses. It is mostly seen on the body. Polycystic Ovary disease may be accompanied by excessive hair growth and menstrual irregularity. Acne leaves deep scars.
Acne Fulminans is a disease characterized by fever, joint pain and severe acne, mostly seen in adolescent males.
Acne Diagnosis and Differential Diagnosis
Acne , especially severe cases, may accompany some diseases. Therefore, it should not be considered only a cosmetic problem. Along with acne, girls may have excessive hair growth, menstrual irregularities, type 2 diabetes, and ovarian cysts. In these cases Hormonal tests must be performed and the underlying disease must be treated. Acne may occur due to excessive hormone secretion in adrenal tumors.
Acne may occur due to occupational or chemical exposure. Exposure to heavy oils, grease, polyvinyl chloride, chlorinated aromatic hydrocarbons, and tar can cause acne. Sudden and severe acne formation may occur after the use of some medications. In this case, the diagnosis is made by history. Antibiotic-resistant acne may occur in those who use strong antibiotics for a long time.
How is Acne Treated?
Cream and oral forms of drugs called Retinoids can be used in acne treatment. Effective skin cleansing should be done to ensure the sebum balance of the skin. Antibiotics also have a place in acne treatment. Cream and or oral form may be preferred. Medicines have been developed to suppress the activity of the sebaceous glands and prevent the formation of new comedones.
Untreated acne can cause both cosmetic and psychological problems by creating a scar. Chemical peeling, microdermabrasion, dermaroller and laser peeling, and mesotherapy can be used to remove acne scars.
How Should Acne Skin Care Be?
The face should be washed twice a day with special soaps or cleansing gel solutions. Acne-prone skin is very sensitive to blemishes, so oil-free sunscreen should be used. These creams also prevent irritation by moisturizing the skin. Oil-free moisturizers can be used to cope with the dryness and irritation caused by acne medications.
It is necessary not to squeeze comedones and acne. To clean the comedones, chemical peeling is performed by the DOCTOR and the comedones are emptied with special comedone caps.
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