Acne Vulgaris
Information on the symptoms and causes of acne vulgaris in teens and adults.
Select a Topic
- What is Acne Vulgaris?
- What Causes Acne Vulgaris?
- Diagnosing Acne Vulgaris
- Help for Acne Vulgaris
- More Information on Acne Vulgaris
What is Acne Vulgaris?
Acne vulgaris, also known as acne is a skin condition that occurs when overactive oil glands and dead cells clog the skin’s pores resulting in a breakout of pimples. When germs enter the pores, redness, swelling and pus often develops. It can affect anyone but is very common amongst teenagers and young adults but usually disappears when they reach their twenties. However, some adults in their 20’s and 30’s and older can develop acne. Many women often experience an acne outbreak before the onset of their menstrual cycle or while they are pregnant due to hormonal changes, but this goes away when it is completed.
There are different forms of acne and these include whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules or cysts. A whitehead is characterized by a pimple that remains under the surface of the skin. A blackhead can be distinguished by its colour black and is a pimple that rises to the surface of the skin. Papules are small, pink bumps that are sometimes tender while pustules are red at the bottom with a pus-like substance on the top. Nodules are large, painful pimples embedded deep within the skin. Cysts are deep, painful pimples filled with pus that leave scars.
The most common parts of the body that are affected by acne include the forehead, face, neck, chest, shoulders and back. Acne that is left untreated can cause serious blemishes and scarring as well as lead to more psychological issues such as poor self esteem, shyness, social phobia, loneliness, anxiety or depression.
What Causes Acne Vulgaris?
Diagnosing Acne Vulgaris
The diagnosis of acne vulgaris is based on an examination of the skin and affected areas. Samples of the skin may be taken to test for any evidence of bacteria.
Help for Acne Vulgaris
In order to keep acne under control and prevent future breakouts, it is essential to follow a good skincare routine by washing your skin with warm water and mild cleansing products every morning and evening. Eliminating greasy and sugary foods from your diet and replacing them with fresh fruit, vegetables and plenty of water will also benefit the appearance of your skin.
A variety of over-the-counter products and topical medications such as lotions, creams and gels containing benzoyl peroxide or oral antibiotics are often used to treat mild to moderately severe acne. For more severe acne, oral medication such as Isotretinoin (Accutane) may be prescribed. It is important to note that these medications may have some serious side effects and you should discuss any concerns with your health practitioner.
More Information for Acne Vulgaris
In order to prevent the breakout of acne vulgaris and unsightly scars, follow these useful tips for a healthy, clear skin:
- Wash your face twice a day with warm water and a gentle pH balanced facial wash or cleanser. Afterwards apply a moisturizer suitable for skin with acne
- Avoid touching your face with your fingers as this spreads bacteria and infection that causes the pores to become inflamed
- Eat a healthy, well balanced diet that contains fresh fruit and vegetables and avoid fatty or refined foods
- Drink at least eight glasses of water daily to eliminate unwanted toxins from the body
- Keep your hair clean by shampooing regularly and make sure that it is out of your face to prevent oil and dirt from clogging the pores
- If acne develops on your body, wear loose, cotton clothing that will allow the skin to breathe
- Never pop pimples as this will only lead to swelling and infection
- Always remove make-up before going to bed and choose noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic brands
- Stay out of the sun and when you go outside, wear a sunscreen
- Stop smoking as it can increase the signs of aging on the skin and worsens acne
