Acne is a skin condition that a lot of people around the world have to contend with. It can be very frustrating, and it can impact on an individual’s self-esteem and mental health. However, it is important to recognise that you are not alone and there are options that are available to you to help you achieve clearer skin and get your confidence back. Considering this, I have put this post together to help you get a better understanding of acne and therefore a better understanding of your treatment options.

What is acne?

Acne is a condition that is caused when the small holes within the skin (pores) become blocked. There are tiny glands close to the skin’s surface, which are known as sebaceous glands. These glands are attached to hair follicles, and holes in your skin that individual hairs grow out of. The sebaceous glands have the responsibility of lubricating the skin and the hair to prevent it from drying out. They do this through sebum production, with sebum being an oily substance. For those who suffer from acne, the glands start producing sebum in excess quantities. This will mix with dead skin cells, with them both creating a plug within the follicle. If the plugged follicle is close to the skin’s surface, it will bulge outward, which creates a whitehead. On the flip side, should the plugged follicle be open to the skin, a blackhead is created. Typically harmless bacteria that lives on the skin can then end up contaminating and infecting the plugged follicles, resulting in cysts, nodules, pustules, or papules. 

Acne is more common in females

Unfortunately, women have it harder than men when it comes to acne! Adult females are more likely to suffer from this condition than men. It is believed that a lot of the cases of adult acne are caused because of changes within the hormone levels, which is what women can have during different periods of their life. Some of the times when women are most likely to experience acne include polycystic ovary syndrome, pregnancy, and when they are on their period. Hormones have a big part to play!

Some of the myths about acne

There are a number of myths about acne that can be put to bed. One of the myths that a lot of people believe is that sunlamps, sunbeds, and sunbathing can help to improve acne symptoms. There has not been any sort of conclusive evidence that extended exposure to sunlight through the use of sunlamps or sunbeds can improve acne. And we all know how bad they are for skin health in general, so personally I would avoid. A lot of the medicines utilised for acne treatment can result in your skin becoming more sensitive to light, which means that such exposure could result in painful skin damage, as well as heightening your risk of skin cancer. So SPF is a must!

Some other myths that are not true include that acne is infectious - this is not the case - and that queezing spots, whiteheads, and blackheads is the most effective way to get rid of acne. Again, this is not the case and it can actually end up making the symptoms and leaving you with scarring. 

Aside from this, acne is not caused by a poor diet. As of yet, there is no research that indicates that acne is related to the consumption of any specific types of food. Eating a balanced and healthy diet is simply recommended because it is good for your health and heart in general. Acne is also not caused by having poor hygiene or dirty skin . Acne is not impacted by the cleanliness of your skin, which a lot of people do not realise. 

What treatment options are there for those suffering from acne?

There are a number of different treatment options for people suffering from acne. A lot of people end up on prescription medication. The combined oral contraceptive pill has become popular for those suffering from acne. Other options include the likes of gels, such as Duac, as well as creams, and lotions, and antibiotic tablets, azelaic acid, topical antibiotics, and topical retinoids. A combination of topical treatments and antibiotic tablets are typically the first option when it comes to severe acne. But I think it's great that products are becoming so much more accessible 'over the counter' too as brands like Dermatica* can create tailored creams specific to your needs from the comfort of your own home.

To conclude, acne is a skin condition that many people around the world experience. If you are suffering from acne, it can be incredibly frustrating and hard to deal with. However, it is vital to realise that there are options available to you and that you can get the treatment you need to experience fresh, clear skin and get your confidence back.

Amina xx