Acne

Acne

What is it?
- Acne is a skin condition that causes whiteheads, blackheads, and inflamed growths such as papules, pustules, and cysts to form. These are commonly referred to as pimples or zits.

media type="custom" key="10793786"

Why does it happen?
- Acne occurs when holes, or pores, on the surface of the skin become clogged. - When glands that lubricate the skin produce too much oil, the pores become blocked. Dirt, bacteria, and inflammatory cells build up. If the inflammation is deep in your skin, the pimples could enlarge and become painful cysts. - Hormonal changes most likely cause the increase of oil on the skin, but people in their 30s-40s may also have acne.

Who does it affec﻿t?
- Most common in teenagers, but it can happen at any age from infant to adulthood.

Symptoms:
- Blackheads (crusting of skin pimples) - Cysts (small red bumps) - Pustules (Redness around eruptions and scarring of skin) - Whiteheads

Diagnosis:
- Doctors can diagnose patients based on the appearance of their skin. Testing is usually not required.

**﻿Treating Acne**:
- Cleanse skin 1-2 daily, also after exercising. - Shampoo hair daily and keep it out of your face when possible. - Try OTC medications (side effects include redness or peeling of the skin) - Small amounts of sun exposure may help but also may just cover it up.

- Prescription medications such as:

 * - Oral Antibiotics: tetracycline, doxycycline, amoxicillin.
 * - Creams: prescription strength benzoyl peroxide.
 * - For Women: birth control
 * - Procedures: laser called photodynamic therapy, chemical skin peel, or removal/drainage/injection of cysts with cortisone.

**﻿Prognosis:**
- Usually goes away after teen years (may last to middle age) - Condition often responds well to treatment after 6-8 weeks (may flare up from time to time) - Scarring may occer if not treated. - Some people could become depressed if acne is not treated.