Acne
Acne can affect all age groups, from a few months after birth to old age. During puberty, virtually all boys and 90% of girls will have some spots and pimples, which are usually mild forms of acne; nearly 85% of people aged between 12 and 25 will have had some acne.
The psychological effects of acne can be severe in some people, who may feel disfigured and unattractive because of the eruptions on their skin.
Many factors are concerned in the development of acne, including a hereditary predisposition and the presence of male hormones (in both boys and girls), which leads to increased sebum production and the presence on the skin of otherwise harmless bacteria called Proprionibacterium acnes. These multiply deep in the hair follicle and produce inflamed pus-filled spots.
Treatment for acne
Prevention is better than cure!
The main aim of the treatment of acne is to prevent new spots appearing on the skin. Getting rid of existing spots is much more difficult: people having treatment are often disappointed because their spots don't disappear quickly. Acne sufferers need a great deal of patience!
A regular cleansing routine using specially formulated products (available from pharmacists and retail outlets) can help to remove surface sebum and the bacteria associated with acne. If these products are conscientiously used on a daily basis they can help to reduce the number of spots that will occur in the future.
People who already have mild to moderate acne should use products specifically formulated for this condition: these contain special ingredients for the prevention of spots, such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which remove keratin and kill the bacteria. These will provide a treatment that can help to reduce the number of existing spots on the skin.
In cases of persistent or severe acne a doctor should always be consulted: effective treatments are available, but only with medical supervision.
Acne Myths
Chocolate and fatty foods cause acne.
Fact: This is just one of the many myths about diet and acne. It is true that acne is less common in some countries where diets are markedly different from ours, but this difference may be due to genetic factors. There is little scientific evidence to indicate that diet plays a significant role in the development of acne.
Sunlight exposure improves acne.
Fact: There is no conclusive evidence to show ultraviolet radiation improves acne. A tan may mask erythema (reddening of the skin) and provide some cosmetic improvement.
Poor hygiene causes acne.
Fact: If acne were caused by a lack of soap and water, it would probably occur between the toes. In fact, too much scrubbing and friction aggravate acne.
Acne is a disease that mainly affects teenagers.
Fact: Many adults have acne or acne variants: the condition can even occur for the first time in elderly people.