By DR MELANIE MIYANJI
Acne is a common skin condition affecting both males and females and can appear in newborns, teenagers and mature adults. The main affected areas are the skin of the face, chest, back and shoulders. Well-managed acne will not leave permanent scars.
In contrast, neglected, mishandled acne and squeezing or popping pimples can result in scars and permanent skin lesions.
Aggravating factors include premenstrual flare-ups, use of some medications, cosmetics, sweating, and certain occupational conditions. Other medical and endocrine conditions as well as chemicals such as halogens also cause acne.
At puberty, the sebaceous glands on the skin can get hyperactive, producing excess sebum. The pores, or openings of the glands, on the skin’s surface get clogged, and the blockages create whiteheads and blackheads. In more serious cases, inflammatory acne can develop resulting in cysts, which are hardened bumps in and under the skin’s surface.
Various episodes
The intensity of acne differs from one individual to another and takes place in various episodes. In some cases an acute flare up may occur which requires strong treatment.
A proper assessment by a doctor is required to determine the cause of an unusual problem. Some diseases can cause severe acne, but effective treatment will help reduce the size and duration of outbreaks.
Treating and managing acne requires maintaining clean skin. However, vigorous cleansing can worsen the zits. Ensure all cosmetics are removed from your skin by proper washing before bedtime. The choice of cosmetics to use is important as some contain acne - stimulating oils that can cause blackheads and whiteheads.
Avoid squeezing, picking or popping pimples. Dermane creams or lotions have a drying and irritating effect. This can be compounded by wind, cold, heat and adverse environmental conditions. These products are best used at night.
Management depends on the type of acne (inflammatory or non-inflammatory), severity, compliance and causative factors including cleansers, or soaps.
Medication is applied to remove excess oils, reduce thickened skin, treat infection when present and restore skin and disturbed pigmentation.
As with many disorders, general well-being will help the body to cope with skin problems. A healthy routine of a balanced diet and regular exercise helps to keep one trim. Anxiety, emotional stress and anger can worsen acne.
— The writer is a consultant dermatologist at Aga Khan University Hospital
