ACNE TREATMENT - THE FACTS

WHO DOES ACNE AFFECT?

Acne is a common skin condition that afflicts most people, to a varying degree and typically during the teen years. However, this disease of the pore is definitely not restricted to the pubescent; 40-50% of women in their 20’s through 40’s are diagnosed with a low grade persistent acne. Of 60 million people plagued by acne, only 11% seek help and 20% of all adults are afflicted with acne. Acne is the most common skin condition treated by physicians in the United States.

 AgePrevalence of Acne
12-24...................................................85%
25-34....................................................8%
35-44....................................................3%

WILL IT JUST GO AWAY ON ITS OWN?

Don’t be deceived into thinking acne requires little or no treatment due to being so common. Waiting to outgrow acne can be a serious mistake. Medical treatments assists in getting this skin disease under control and will improve the appearance of the skin and help prevent development of scars and psychological damage.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF ACNE?

Comedones: These lesions include blackheads and whiteheads, and are made up of excess cells packed into the pore.

Papules: These are small, firm, raised lumps that can be red and inflamed from advanced retention of excess cells but do not contain fluid. The inflammatory response may be caused by reaction deep in the follicle to sebum, fatty acids and bacteria.

Pustules: These are second stage papules and the the pore is usually pus-filled and can cause scarring.

Nodules: A red, sore bump develops when there is a break in the follicular wall deep down in the follicle. These are similar to a papule but larger, deeper, and firmer to the touch.

Cysts: These are fluid filled, inflamed nodules and very painful. Cystic acne causes most of the scarring and therapy must be timely to avoid the disfigurement caused by scarring.

WHAT CAUSES ACNE?

Acne is typically caused by the biological changes that take place as young people mature from childhood to adolescence. Rising endocrine hormone levels during puberty result in the enlargement of the subaceous glands of the skin that create natural oils. Normally the oils cause old skin cells to rise to the surface and slough off, but with excess hormones more cells are created than can be released and the pore becomes clogged with these cells. These clogged pores build up bacteria forming whiteheads, blackheads, and red pustules.

Aggravating Factors of Acne

1. Stress
2. Sunlight
3. Seasons
4. Climate
5. Pressure and Friction
6. Picking
7. Industrial Chemicals and Oils
8. Diet
9. Drugs
10. Menstrual Cycles
11. Pregnancy
12. Birth Control Pills
13. Cosmetics

HOW CAN ACNE BE TREATED?

Treatments are as individual as the cases of acne. Various methods may be used depending on the types of acne, the severity, and the goals of treatment.

AHA’s: (Alphahydroxy Acids) AHA’s have two specific actions: dislodge comedones and help prevent the formation of new ones, and open pustules to clear the follicle of excess cells. The use of AHA’s can also increase the penetration of other topical medications used at home.

TO SCHEDULE:

If you are interested in learning more about acne treatment, please contact Excel Cosmetic Surgery Center at 801-379-2900 and we will be happy to answer your questions.