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Acne: A Comprehensive Guide

John Tsenekos
September 14, 2022
4 MINS READ
Acne is a skin condition that affects millions of people all over the world. While it is most commonly associated with teenagers, it can occur at any age. There are many different causes, and it can be treated in a variety of ways.
In this blog post, we will discuss what acne is, the different types, and the various causes and treatments for this skin condition.
A picture of a woman who had face acne

Understanding Acne

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells.

Acne Causes

This can happen for a variety of reasons. It can occur on any part of the body, but it is most commonly seen on the face, neck, chest, and back.
Acne can be caused by several things:
  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Changes in diet
  • Stressful lifestyle
  • Certain medications
All of these factors can contribute to an increase in oil production, which can lead to clogged pores and eventually acne. Acne is not caused by dirt, so even if you have oily skin, you can still have clear skin.
Acne can cause a lot of emotional stress and can be difficult to deal with. There are many different treatments available, so finding the right one for you may take some time. However, there is no need to suffer from this skin condition any longer.

Acne Types

There are several different types, but the most common are Acne Vulgaris, Acne Rosacea, and Cystic Acne.

Acne Vulgaris

Is the type that most people think of when they hear the word “acne.” Blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed cysts are all typical symptoms. Acne Vulgaris can be mild, moderate, or severe.

Acne Rosacea

It is a type of acne that is often mistaken for Acne Vulgaris. It’s characterized by redness and inflammation of the skin, but it doesn’t usually have blackheads or whiteheads.

Cystic Acne

This type of acne is a severe form of Acne Vulgaris. Large, painful cysts are a hallmark of this disease. Cystic Acne is more common in teenagers and young adults, but it can occur at any age.
An image of a person pointing to their cheek and showing face acne

Treating Acne

There are many different ways to treat it, and the best treatment depends on the type and the underlying cause.

OTC Medications

The most common OTC medications for acne are benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.
  • Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial agent that kills the bacteria that cause acne. It’s available in cream, gel, or lotion form.
  • Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent that helps to break down the bonds between dead skin cells. This helps to prevent the formation of new acne lesions. Salicylic acid is available in gel, cream, or lotion form.
There are also a number of other OTC acne treatments that contain ingredients like sulfur, resorcinol, and azelaic acid.

Skincare Products

There are some skincare products that can help to treat acne.
  • Cleansers: A good cleanser will help to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. Look for one that contains benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur.
  • Moisturizers: A good moisturizer will help to keep the skin hydrated and can also help to reduce inflammation. Look for one that contains aloe vera or green tea extract.
  • Spot treatments: Spot treatments are applied directly to the blemish. They usually contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur.

 

An image of a woman with her hair wrapped and touching her face

Preventing Acne

There are several things that you can do, including:
  • Washing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser
  • Avoiding comedogenic ingredients in skincare products
  • Using acne medications and skincare products as directed
  • Avoiding excessive sun exposure
Acne is a widespread skin problem that may be treated in a variety of ways. You can discover the ideal treatment for you by knowing the many types and underlying causes.
If you are concerned about acne, talk to your doctor or dermatologist. They can help you find the best treatment and prevent acne from occurring in the future. 
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