ACNE / PIMPLES

ACNE
Acne is an inflammatory disease at the base where the hair grows off the skin (Pilo Sebaceous Unit). A plug of the hair follicle ensues and a pimple develops. Acne occurs most frequently on these surfaces:

• Face
• Chest
• Back

Acne generally presents as small pink growth with sometimes surrounding plug of skin hair material, so they may have a black center or form pus inside or cyst.

Causes of Acne:

• Mostly unknown
• Occasionally stress
• Hereditary (Teenager acne where 3 out of 4 teenagers have some)
• Hormones
• Drugs
• Bacteria

Adults have a more persistent form of acne than teenagers, and are sometimes more difficult to treat.

Papule - Small circumscribe, superficial solid elevation of the skin less than 1 cm.

Pimple - is the actual papule or pus filled cyst usually on the face, neck, or upper trunk. A form of acne called acne vulgaris often causes pimple.

Treatment of acne may be multi-facet. Most important is the reduction of oil production, infection control and increase skin cell turnover or a combination of.

Choices include:

1. Lotions:
   • Benzoyl peroxide
   • Resorcinol
   • Salicylic acid
   • Vitamin A
   • Aselaic (azelax)
   • Adapalene
   • Alpha-Hydroxyl products
2. Antibiotics: For serious acne associated with bacterial infection. Antibiotics may be taken for months maybe years. Topical antibiotics may be used.
3. Vitamin A by mouth: Accutane, which is an oral form of vitamin A, functions by reducing oil production in acne. Accutane is associated with serious birth defects in pregnant females and should not be taken if pregnant or contemplating pregnancy.
4. Surgery: If your acne is very severe and forms debilitating skin condition, a dermatologist consult may be necessary for possible skin surgeries.