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Acne Vulgaris
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Acne Vulgaris. 
 

Overview of Acne

Overview of Acne

Acne vulgaris, commonly known as acne or pimples is the most common skin disorder that affects about 80% of the teenagers and about 40–50% of the adult women.1

Types of Acne

Types of Acne 

Why is Acne More Common in Teenagers?

The formation of acne has been attributed to the overactive pilosebaceous glands as discussed earlier. These units (which are seen during infancy due to the effect of maternal hormones) generally regress during childhood. But during adolescence that is characterized by increased production of the hormone known as androgens, these units resurface and may result in acne owing to the triggering factors.7

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Acne?

Signs and symptoms of Acne.

As mentioned before, acne is characterized by the formation of blackheads, whiteheads or pimples on the face. Acne is commonly noticed on the face, while it may also occur on the shoulders, chest and trunk region, arms, legs and buttocks.

Are there any Home Remedies for Acne?

Home remedies for Acne

Mild cases of acne can be managed effectively with simple steps at home.

What are the OTC Medications Available for Acne?

OTC Medication for Acne

Various medications in the forms of gels, creams and solutions are available as OTC. But before using any OTC, the skin type should be assessed and then, the type of medication to be applied will be chosen.

What are the Medications Advised for Acne?

Medication for Acne.

Commonly, certain antibiotics that belong to the group of minocycline, erythrocycline, doxycycline and tetracycline are prescribed by the skin specialists, if the topical application of medicated creams or gels does not reduce the acne.

What are the Social Impacts on Individuals with Acne?

Individuals with acne may suffer from poor self-esteem, social isolation and depression. The presence of acne or the change in the appearance of the facial skin and may give rise to a changed body image that in turn may lead to anger, fear, shyness , anxiety, depression, embarrassment and bullying and stigmatization within peer groups. Lack of confidence, social withdrawal, feelings of insecurity and inferiority, limited employment opportunities, functional and interpersonal difficulties at work and suicidal tendencies have also been reported in individuals with acne.2,6

Can Acne be Prevented?
No specific measures for the prevention of acne have been enumerated. However, the spread of acne can be prevented by following the correct duration of treatment, taking precautions to prevent its spread and consulting a dermatologist. Early care can prevent the condition from becoming severe and other complications such as scarring on the face.

Questions and Answers

What is the treatment for severe acne

How to treat acne and pimples

 

      

Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: July 01,  2011

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References 

 

  1. Cheung MJ, Taher M, Lauzon GJ. Acneiform facial eruptions: A problem for young women. Can Fam Physician. 2005; 51: 527–533.
  2. Ayer J, Burrows N. Acne: More than skin deep. PostgradMedJ2006; 82: 500–506.
  3. Federman DG, Kirsner RS. Acne Vulgaris: Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Approach. AmJ ManagCare. 2000; 6(1): 78–89.
  4. MedlinePlus. Acne. [homepage on Internet]. Bethesda, MD: U.S. Nationa Library of Medicine; [updated 2007 Oct 17; cited 2008 Jan 07]. Available from: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000873.htm
  5. Purdy S. Acne. BMJ. 2006; 333: 949–953.
  6. Feldman S, Careccia RE, et al. Diagnosis and treatment of acne. Am Fam Physician. 2004; 69(9): 2123–2130.
  7. Russell JJ. Topical therapy for acne. Am Fam Physician. 2000;61(2):357-66.
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