Acne

Acne is a skin condition that shows up as different types of bumps. Acne can affect people from ages 10 through 40 and up. In fact, about 17 million people in the United States have acne.It also can be caused by the rapid production of a bacteria P. acnes. Acne can show up as any of the following: congested pores, whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, papules, pustules, nodules, cysts, rosacea, or conglobata. Acne vulgaris , the medical term for common acne, is the most common skin disease. Up to 20% of women develop mild acne. It is also found in some newborns. Acne affects most teenagers to some extent.  However, the disease is not restricted to any age group; adults in their 20s - even into their 40s - can get acne. Acne develops when the hair follicle of skin gets plugged by overproduction of sebum, dead cells and become infected by bacteria. Acne lesions range in severity from comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) to nodules and cysts.To avoid acne scarring, treating acne is important.

Acne is a disorder resulting from the action of hormones and other substances on the skin's oil glands (sebaceous glands) and hair follicles.The sebaceous glands lie just beneath the skin's surface. They produce sebum, an oily secretion that helps to preserve the flexibility of the hair and moisturizes the skin. When severe, acne can lead to serious and permanent scarring.  Even less severe cases can lead to scarring. About 8 in 10 preteens and teens have acne, along with many adults. Although acne is usually not a serious health threat, it can be a source of significant emotional distress. Acne can be disfiguring and upsetting to the patient. Untreated acne can leave permanent scars; these may be treated by your dermatologist in the future. When acne is severe and forms deep "pus-filled" lumps, it is called cystic acne. Medical treatment can improve your appearance and self esteem, and prevent the development of lifelong scars.

Causes of Acne

Here are the list of the possible causes of Acne :

• There are tubes (ducts) that run to the surface of the skin from these glands. Too many of the cells lining the ducts are produced.
• Rising hormone levels during adolescence cause enlargement and over activity of the oil glands i n the skin.
• When these oil glands are overactive and the canals are blocked, the bacteria that normally live on the skin and in the oil multiply, and inflame the skin.
• The glands continue to secrete, leading to swelling behind the plug.
• Acne occurs when tiny holes on the surface of the skin called pores become clogged.
• High levels of humidity and sweating
• Hormonal changes related to menstrual periods, pregnancy, birth control pills , or stress.
• Stress, through increased output of hormones from the adrenal (stress) glands.
• Use of anabolic steroids.
• Any medication containing halogens (iodides, chlorides, bromides), lithium , barbiturates , or androgens.
  

Symptoms of Acne

Some sign and symptoms related to Acne are as follows :

• Small spots which known as "blackheads" (or open comedones).
• The largest spots are more likely to leave lasting scars.
• Whiteheads These are created when the openings of hair follicles become clogged and blocked with oil secretions and dead skin.
• Cysts : These are thick lumps beneath the surface of the skin, which are formed by the buildup of secretions deep within hair follicles.
• Redness of the face in discrete areas or covering the entire face.
• A tendency to flush or blush easily.
• Irritated, bloodshot, watery eyes.

Treatment of Acne

Here is list some of the methods for treating Candidiasis:

• Benzoyl peroxide : This is a chemical which is in many acne preparations. It opens up the blocked ducts, and helps to kill the bacteria.
• There are other chemicals sometimes used in creams and gels such as: salicylic acid, nicotinamide, and azelaic acid.
• Oral antibiotics.
• Tretinoin (Retin-A) : This is applied to the skin as a cream, gel or liquid.
• Use ordinary hygiene on affected areas, washing your face once or twice daily with your usual soap or cleanser.
• Do not pick or squeeze. This may worsen scarring.