Acne – Causes, Treatment, and Solutions

Acne does not only have a physical effect on the human mind but also a psychological effect associated with it. It occurs usually in teenagers and leads to emotional distress, low self-esteem, and feelings of anxiety. If you have acne, keep reading to know what you can do. We at Epicorium, provide the best acne treatments helping you clear up your skin.

What is acne and what causes it?

Let’s first understand what is acne and what causes acne. Acne is a disorder where skin pores get clogged due to excessive dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Acne is a very common skin concern and it can occur on the face, neck, shoulders, back, buttocks, and chest.

Here are the main causes you are getting acne:

Dirt/Pollution

Dirt particles in the environment block the skin pores. Various chemical gases that are mixed in the air also amplify it causing bacterial acne.

Medications

Some medicines containing steroids can cause or even make acne worse. Other birth control pills, anticonvulsants, and medicines containing lithium also cause acne.

Hormonal Imbalance

Acne is more often caused by hormonal imbalance in the body which increases androgen hormone levels. With this rise, excessive oil is produced causing a blockage in the pores and it leads to acne.

Cosmetics

Make-up products can also clog the skin pores and worsen acne. The excessive use of cosmetics like foundations, and, concealers leads to blockage and therefore care must be taken while using these products.

Stress

Stress increases the androgen levels in the body which causes oil glands to produce more sebum. Due to this, acne may worsen.

What are the different types of acne?

Your dermatologist can identify the type of acne and plan your treatment accordingly so it is advisable to understand your acne type and then proceed further with its treatment.

Acne can be classified into further:

Blackheads

Blackheads as the name suggests appear black in color where the top of the pore is open and the rest remains clogged.

Whiteheads

Whiteheads just like blackheads are caused by clogged pores but here the pore is close even at the top.

Papules

Papules appear pink in color and the skin surrounding the clogged pore is tender due to inflammation.

Cysts

Here the clogged pores are deep under the surface of the skin. Cysts are usually red and white in color and are mostly caused due to severe inflammation.

How does acne occur?

In normal conditions, the old skin cells die and fresh skin cells form. But in acne-prone skin, the dead skin cells accumulate inside the pores. This causes the pores to clog.

Sometimes, even the changes in hormones cause more oil production which results in blockage. This leads to the formation of bacteria resulting in P. Acne. The oil in the skin acts as a catalyst and leads to inflammation.

Acne Treatments

There are several treatments available for acne and based on your skin and skin condition our dermatologists will recommend you the best treatment suitable for you.

Generally, they will advise you to go for the following treatments:

Topical and antibiotics

If your acne is less severe, then in the initial stages the dermatologist will advise you on some topical lotions, and antibiotics. They might recommend some contraceptive pills as well in case of acne caused due to hormonal imbalance. Be sure to consult a dermatologist before taking any pills.

Chemical peels

It is a type of skin peeling where the outer dead skin layer is removed which allows regenerating the new epidermal layer. It acts as an exfoliation.

Laser resurfacing

In laser resurfacing, a device is used with high-energy light. Just like chemical peel, it also removes the outer dead skin layer and allows the regeneration of new cells in the skin. Additionally, it also removes the bacteria which are causing acne.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure where skin polishing takes place with a device. It flushes out the dead skin cells and removes acne, helping with uneven skin tone as well as acne spots. Generally, this is recommended by dermatologists as an advanced procedure option and it makes your skin glow.

What can you expect during an acne treatment?

When you consult a dermatologist for your acne, the dermatologist will first examine your skin condition. Based on your acne severity and after analyzing everything, the dermatologist will recommend a treatment plan. The dermatologist might ask you questions regarding your lifestyle, and medical history. During this time, you might ask and clarify your doubts as well.

If you are recommended to go for the procedure, then during the procedure you will be provided with all the protective equipment. You would be asked to lie on the bed where under supervision the recommended procedure will take place. It generally takes 45 minutes on average to complete the procedure.

Once finished, the dermatologist will also guide you about the post-procedure care and you might be asked to visit for further follow-ups.

Before & After Pictures:

Patients’ Stories & Experiences:

Are there any side effects of acne treatment?

Usually, the acne treatment takes place without any complications. But, some patients might experience the following side-effects in mild to considerate amounts:

• Dryness of skin
• Irritation
• The feeling of skin burn
• Dizziness if oral medications are prescribed

However, these conditions do not last long and go away after the treatment.

Don’t let your acne steal away your self-confidence. At Epicorium, we offer the best and most affordable acne treatments customized just for your skin. Consult us today!