Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It most commonly appears on the face, but can also appear on the neck, chest, back, and shoulders. Acne treatments may be acne medications in the form of creams and tablets.
There are several types of acne, including:
- Whiteheads: Closed, clogged pores that appear as small white or flesh-coloured bumps on the skin.
- Blackheads: Open, clogged pores that appear as small black dots on the skin.
- Papules: Small, raised, red bumps on the skin.
- Pustules: Small, pus-filled bumps on the skin.
- Cysts: Large, painful, pus-filled lumps beneath the skin.
Acne can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, genetics, and certain medications. Some common triggers of acne include:
- Hormonal changes: Acne often appears during puberty, when hormonal changes cause the sebaceous glands to produce more oil.
- Genetics: If your parents had acne, you may be more likely to develop it as well.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as steroids, lithium, and some anticonvulsants, can cause acne as a side effect.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to certain pollutants and irritants can contribute to the development of acne.
Treatment for acne usually involves a combination of strategies to manage symptoms and prevent new pimples from forming.
Acne Treatment
The most common acne medications are listed below:
Topical Medications
These are medications that are applied directly to the skin, such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and salicylic acid. They work by reducing inflammation, unclogging pores, and killing bacteria.
Oral Medications
In some cases, oral medications such as antibiotics, birth control pills, and isotretinoin may be prescribed to help manage acne.
Lifestyle Changes
Making changes to your diet and skincare routine can help prevent new pimples from forming. This may involve avoiding certain foods, using non-comedogenic skincare products, and keeping the skin clean and hydrated.
It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider or dermatologist to develop a treatment plan that works best for your specific case of acne.