Acne problems
Acne is a skin problem that usually begins in the young teenage years and can last until the early 20s or even later. It is a skin disease caused by the bacteria (Propionibacterium acne), hormones, clogging of pores and an inflammation of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles, which are on the face, neck, shoulders, back and chest. Acne expression event ranges from noninflammatory (“blackheads and “whiteheads”) to inflammatory (“cysts”). Acne thus comprises of many problems including those of skin as well as psychosocial problems.
The various signs of acne problems are as follows:
Blackheads (closed comedones)
Whiteheads (open comedones)
Pustules
Papules (raised pink lesions)
Cysts or nodules (severe form of acne)
Scarring (depression in skin due to acne)
Hyper pigmentation especially in those with dark complexion.
Diagnosis of acne problems: As mentioned above the symptoms of acne can be recognized easily. Consulting general physician can treat mild or moderate acne. The severe form of acne that is nodules or cysts have to be treated by a dermatologist.
The various factors responsible for acne are sebum (oily substance that lubricates hair follicle), heredity, changes in the hair follicle, bacteria (Propionibacterium acne) and, hormones. So the treatment has to be tailor made according to individual.
Treatments to solve acne problems:
Treatment is aimed at reducing the production of above-mentioned factors and hence is tailor made according to individual needs.
Treatment can be taken orally or applied topically. The choice of treatment depends on the extent, severity and duration of disease.
Topical treatments:
Topical treatments are normally used for mild to moderate acne available in gel or cream form. The various medicines available in this form are salicylic acid, tretinoin, benzyol peroxide, etc.
Oral treatments:
Oral or systemic drugs help in curing complete body instead of just the affected area. Oral drugs for acne problems include oral antibiotics, isotretinoin and hormonal agents.
Oral antibiotics:
Doxycycline
Minocycline
Erythromycin
Tetracycline
Clindamycin
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
Hormonal agents:
Oral contraceptives
Estrogen replacement
Ant androgens
Corticosteroids
So find out the cause of your acne and get problem solved by a dermatologist if necessary through proper treatment.