Acne is a common skin condition that develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It is most common during adolescence but can affect people at almost any age, including adults.
The condition can cause whiteheads, blackheads, pimples and, in more severe cases, deep nodules or cysts. Acne commonly affects the face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders because these areas contain many oil-producing glands.
What causes acne?
Four main factors are involved in acne: excess oil production, clogged hair follicles, bacteria and inflammation, according to Mayo Clinic. Hormonal changes during puberty can increase oil production and make clogged pores more likely.
Stress can also contribute to acne flare-ups. Some medicines and skin or hair-care products can worsen acne, particularly products that are oily or likely to clog pores. Dermatologists recommend looking for products labelled non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic or oil-free.
Acne is not caused simply by dirt, and excessive washing or scrubbing can irritate the skin and make the condition worse.
The claim that Filipino people develop more acne because of “water retention” or that they have higher levels of a particular immune protein than Caucasians is not supported by the dermatology sources reviewed for this report. Acne affects people across skin types and ethnic backgrounds, although people with darker skin may be more likely to develop dark marks after acne clears.
What treatments work?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of acne. The American Academy of Dermatology’s updated guidelines recommend several evidence-based treatments, including topical benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, salicylic acid and azelaic acid. Some people with moderate or severe acne may also need prescription medicines.
Benzoyl peroxide helps reduce acne-causing bacteria, while topical retinoids such as adapalene help unclog pores and reduce inflammation. Salicylic acid can help unclog pores and exfoliate the skin.
Contrary to one claim in the supplied material, dermatology guidelines do not advise people with acne to avoid benzoyl peroxide. It remains one of the recommended first-line treatments.
Treatment does not work immediately. Some nonprescription products can take several weeks to show improvement, and dermatologists commonly recommend giving an acne treatment six to eight weeks before judging its effect.
What about tea tree oil and other home remedies?
Tea tree oil has some evidence behind it, but it is not among the strongest evidence-based first-line treatments. Mayo Clinic notes that gels containing at least 5 percent tea tree oil may help acne, although they can work more slowly than benzoyl peroxide and may cause itching, burning, redness or dryness.
The supplied material recommends turmeric, onion juice, homemade yoghurt and honey masks and other remedies as ways to speed healing. Those claims should not be presented as established acne treatments. The American Academy of Dermatology says evidence is insufficient to recommend many alternative therapies, including plant-based products.
Ice may temporarily reduce swelling, but it does not treat the underlying causes of acne. It should not be presented as a treatment that cures pimples.
Laser and light-based treatments have also been studied, but the American Academy of Dermatology says there is not enough evidence to make a general recommendation for laser and light-based devices as acne treatments.
Skin care can help
People with acne can wash affected areas gently twice a day with a mild cleanser and warm water. Dermatologists advise against harsh scrubs, astringents and excessive washing because irritation can worsen acne.
Touching, picking or squeezing pimples can worsen acne and increase the risk of scarring. Friction or pressure from items such as tight collars, straps and sports equipment can also aggravate acne in some people.
Makeup does not necessarily have to be avoided. People with acne can use products labelled non-comedogenic or oil-free, which are less likely to clog pores. Makeup should be removed before going to bed.
Moisturizer can also be useful, particularly when acne treatments cause dryness or irritation. Dermatologists may recommend moisturizers alongside treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and topical retinoids.
When to see a dermatologist
People with deep, painful nodules or cysts, acne that is leaving scars or dark marks, or acne that does not improve with nonprescription treatment may need professional care.
Dermatologists can combine different treatments depending on the type and severity of acne. Options can include topical medicines, oral antibiotics and, in appropriate cases, other prescription treatments. Oral antibiotics are generally used for the shortest appropriate period and alongside other treatments to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.
Acne can persist beyond adolescence and develop for the first time during adulthood. It is treatable, but finding the appropriate treatment may take time and sometimes requires medical supervision.
