Acne is the most common skin condition with more than 90% of Canadians having been affected at one time or another. It is thought that acne begins at puberty when hormone levels increase and heredity can play a role. Usually acne begins during your teen years and peaks in the late teens, but some people may have acne that persists into their thirties and forties.
The face is most often affected, but the chest and back may also be involved. Acne is an inflammatory condition caused when a waxy substance known as sebum which accumulates and plugs the sebaceous glands resulting in comedones. Comedones can either be open or closed, that is a black head or white head. Comedones can become infected forming a pus-filled cyst or pimple. Sometimes these lesions can be red, swollen, and deep; and after healing leave scars.
Non-prescription acne medications include medicated soaps and skin washes, keratolytics like salicylic acid which help remove comedones, and benzoyl peroxide which has an antibacterial effect. For mild acne, these products used twice daily may be effective. If your acne is extensive or deep, you may need a prescription item. Antibiotics such as erythromycin or tetracycline can be used either applied on the skin or taken orally. They reduce infection and help control inflammation. Vitamin A or retinoid compounds are applied to acne, however initially you may experience more redness and irritation. Oral isotretinoin is available, but can cause birth defects. Hormonal agents which counteract androgen’s effects are also an option for females affected by acne.
If you have acne, there are some measures you can use that do not involve medications:
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Wash affected area no more than twice daily and avoid aggressive scrubbing which can cause more irritation. Choose unscented soap as perfumes can also cause irritation.
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Sun exposure may help clear acne, however too much can cause sunburn and worsen acne - remember to wear sun screen.
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Diet is not considered to cause acne, however if you notice that some foods bother your acne avoid them - both greasy foods and chocolate have not been shown to cause acne.
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Cosmetics can worsen acne - use as little as possible and choose oil free cosmetics.
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Some medications can cause acne – check with your ARP Pharmacist.
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Don’t pick or squeeze your pimples - skin damage and more serious infections can result.
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Sweating and tight fitting head gear or clothes can cause skin irritation and worsen acne.
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Acne can be associated with pregnancy or confused with other conditions like rosacea - you may need a check-up.
