Acne is a widespread skin condition affecting a significant portion of the population across all ages and genders. While not contagious, acne can affect large areas of skin. It’s a common misconception that acne is solely a teenage problem; it can also affect infants (acne infantilis) and middle-aged adults (acne rosacea).
Acne is classified by its severity, beginning with comedones, which are small lesions or red swellings. Comedones manifest as whiteheads (closed comedones) or blackheads (open comedones). The dark color of blackheads results from melanin, sebum, and skin debris accumulation. Papules are small, raised bumps that create a sandpaper-like texture on the skin, particularly around the mouth, forehead, chin, and cheeks. Pustules are pus-filled lesions, while nodules are larger, firmer acne that develop deeper within the skin.
Severe inflammation can lead to cysts, which contain a semi-liquid or liquid substance composed of dead white blood cells (killed by Propionibacterium acnes bacteria), dead skin cells, and active or inactive bacteria. Consulting a dermatologist is recommended for cysts.
The exact cause of acne varies, influenced by factors like diet, stress, weather, hormonal changes, and genetics. Acne often begins with hardened sebum, an oily substance secreted by sebaceous glands. Bacteria infects the sebum and triggers an immune response, causing white blood cells to attack. The accumulation of dead white blood cells, bacteria, skin debris, and dead skin particles inflames the lesions.
Mild acne can often be treated with over-the-counter topical medications like soaps, lotions, gels, and creams. More severe cases may require systematic oral medications such as antibiotics.
Ongoing research provides new insights and treatments for acne, so staying informed is essential in managing and combating this common skin condition.