Acne is the most common skin problem around the globe. In USA alone, 85% of the population suffers from mild to severe cases of acne as per the statistics reported by the American Academy of Dermatology.
What is Acne?
The word acne has a Greek origin. It was derived from the word acme which means “the highest point”. Traditionally, it was assumed that any scaring on the forehead was acme, however, as time passed the ‘m’ in the word acme was replaced by an ‘n’ and referred to any scarring including pimples, cysts, and breakouts all over the face, neck, back or shoulders.
Acne can be defined as a skin condition which affects the oil glands responsible for producing sebum. The follicle canal present between the gland and the pores carries thin hair and dead skin. When this follicle canal is blocked with dirt or excess oil, it forms a pimple. Acne isn’t chronic, and it isn’t life-threatening, but can result in low-self esteem, stress, and depression in many teenagers and adults. It is most common in people ages 11 to 30.
Why Acne?
Although the actual cause of acne is still unknown, there are several different factors that contribute to it. Medical researchers believe that a person may develop acne when he/she experiences a high level of androgen (a type of hormone) in the body. The increased levels enlarge the oil glands, allowing for more oil to be produced. This, as a result, allows excess sebum breakdown, making it a breeding ground for bacteria to grow.Other causes such as greasy makeup, certain medication side effects, excess consumption of oily food, pregnancy, genetics, hormonal imbalance or the use or stop of birth control pills may also trigger a breakout. Whichever be the cause, it is treatable once you understand what is causing it.
The Different Types of Acne
- Whiteheads
- Blackheads
- Pustules
- Papules
- Cysts
- Nodules
How to Treat Acne?
There are several different ways to treat acne or to prevent it. Caring for one’s skin, keeping it exfoliated and scrubbed, and regular miniaturization (techniques to minimize large pores) to avoid dryness are a few. Many even rely on medications, serums, and creams to battle the bulge – but all of these can only be effective if one knows what is causing it. For many, it is the diet they are following, any hormonal imbalances, excessive stress, smoking or the amount of water intake etc. are the primary reason for a breakout. To help you combat your acne, we suggest you schedule an appointment with Dr. Parikh at irvingprimarycare.com. To schedule an appointment, call 469-262-5762, or visit www.healthonemedicine.com for more information.