Acne Treatment

Acne vulgaris is a dynamic chronic skin disease of the pilosebaceous unit
Acne is a really frustrating condition for those affected usually bubbly teenagers. It is a repeated blow to one’s self esteem as hormones play havoc and the sebaceous( oil) glands suddenly make their presence felt. To add fuel to the fire bacteria form pus and make matters worse. And so continues the cycle till the initial crop clears and a new one starts

It is characterized by whiteheads, pimples, greasy skin, nodules and pustules. Healing may be followed by an unfavourable outcome like scarring. It primarily affects areas of the skin with a relatively high number of sebaceous glands, including the face, upper part of the chest, shoulders and back. The resulting appearance can lead to anxiety and reduced self esteem

The primary cause of acne in 80% of cases is thought to be heredity. The role of diet and cigarette smoking is unclear. During puberty, in both sexes, acne is often brought on by an increase in hormones such as testosterone. Contributory factors like hormones, infection, diet and stress may worsen the acne.

WHAT CAUSES ACNE?

• Sebaceous gland hyperactivity influenced by androgens
• Changes in follicular epithelium
• Colonization of follicle by bacterium P acnes
• Local release of mediators of inflammation in the skin

TYPES OF ACNE

• Mild: Comedones on face
• Moderate: Inflammatory pustules on face and body
• Severe: Nodules on face and body involved

FEATURES

Typical features may be

• Increased oily sebum secretion
• Microcomedones/comedones (blackheads,whiteheads)
• Nodules
• Pustules (pus filled lesions)
• Psychological and social problems

SEQUELAE

• Scars
• Post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation PIH

TREATMENT

• Lifestyle changes

Dietary modification, Sun protection, Stress reduction

• Medications

Topical retinoids, Benzoyl peroxide, Topical and Oral Antibiotics, Salicylic Acid

• Medical procedures

Comedone extraction, Photodynamic Therapy(PDT), Laser Therapy, Light Therapy

• Combination Therapy

FAQS

1. How many sessions does it take to clear the acne?

Typically it takes around 4-6 sessions. It may be anywhere from about 4-8 weeks depending on the severity of the acne

2. Who can be treated?

Anyone who has mild to severe acne can be treated.

3. Is it painful?

The treatment is very comfortable and not painful

4. How many treatments are necessary?

Around 4-6 treatments. It should however be remembered that acne is a chronic condition and a very good control is the goal of any treatment.

5. Any side effects?

Some redness may be seen in a few which is temporary

6. What is the post treatment care?

Generally maintenance treatment after the sessions are complete. It is advisable not to pick, squeeze or burst acne as it may increase not only the acne but also chances of scarring. Post treatment care will be explained according to the skin type as it is done while sessions are in progress