Acne is a common chronic disorder affecting the hair follicle and sebaceous gland, in which there is expansion and blockage of the follicle and inflammation. 

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Acne affects males and females of all races and ethnicities. It is prevalent in adolescents and young adults, with 85% of 16 to 18 year-olds affected. However, it may sometimes occur in children and adults of all ages.

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Acne is due to a combination of factors. The exact mechanisms are not fully understood.

• Familial tendency

• Endogenous and exogenous androgenic hormones

• Acne bacteria

• Innate immune activation with inflammatory mediators

• Distension and occlusion of the hair follicles

​Some treatment options are listed:

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• Topical anti-acne agents, such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, and tretinoin or adapalene gel. New bioactive proteins may also prove successful.

• Low-dose combined oral contraceptive

• Antiseptic or keratolytic washes containing salicylic acid

• Light/laser therapy

• As for mild acne plus a tetracycline such as doxycycline 50–200 mg daily for 6 months or so

• Erythromycin or trimethoprim if doxycycline intolerant

• Antiandrogen therapy with long-term cyproterone acetate + ethinylestradiol or spironolactone may be considered in women not responding to low-dose combined oral contraceptive, particularly for women with polycystic ovaries

• Isotretinoin is often used if acne is persistent or treatment-resistant

 

Ask your Dermatologist more about these conditions