Struggling with Acne? Here’s What You Need to Know
Acne is one of THE most common skin conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is estimated that around 9.4% of the global population has acne, which means approximately 650 million people are affected.
In the UK, about 15% of adolescents and young people have been diagnosed with acne, and in 2021, the UK was ranked among the top 10 countries with the highest prevalence of acne among adolescents and young people.
This just comes to show, if you are currently dealing with acne, you are most certainly not alone! But what causes acne and how can we help treat it?
Everything You Need To Know About Acne
When we think of acne, most of us immediately think of hormonal teenagers (or think of ourselves flaunting a red dot or two in high school). However, acne can occur at absolutely any age.
The sebaceous glands in our dermis produce sebum, an oily substance that helps keep our skin moisturised. However, excessive sebum production can lead to blockages (caused by hormones, PCOS, your diet, genetics, overwashing, and even stress), creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.
Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to inflammation. Similar to the formation of acne, cysts can also form when a hair follicle or skin pore becomes blocked and infected that may require the physical removal of the cyst.
However, it is important to understand that acne (and some cysts) caused by blocked follicles and pores commonly appears on areas of the skin with the highest concentration of sebaceous glands, such as the face, chest, shoulders, and back.
And if picked at (which, let’s be honest, we all tend to do), or left untreated, can lead to the development of scars.
Acne Vs. Cysts
Even though they may appear similar at first glance, there are one or two differences between acne and cysts. As established, both can appear in areas with high oil production, but cysts can go even beyond those areas by appearing practically anywhere on and in your body (not exclusive to the skin).
Very Common Acne Symptoms
It goes without saying, acne symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition. However, more often than not, the most common symptoms include closed clogged pores that appear as small, flesh-coloured or white bumps (whiteheads), open clogged pores that appear dark due to oxidation (blackheads) and red, inflamed bumps with white or yellow pus-filled centre (pustules).
Other common acne symptoms are large, painful lumps deep beneath the skin (nodules), small, inflamed red or pink bumps without a visible centre (papules), and severe, painful, pus-filled lumps that can cause scarring (cysts).
Let’s Have A Quick Look At The Different Types Of Acne
- Comedonal Acne: Typically characterised by whiteheads and blackheads, comedonal acne is non-inflammatory and mild in nature.
- Inflammatory Acne: Includes papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts, often accompanied by redness and swelling.
- Cystic Acne: A severe form of inflammatory acne that involves large, painful cysts deep within the skin.
- Hormonal Acne: Usually appears around the jawline and chin, and is often associated with menstrual cycles or hormonal imbalances.
Non-Surgical Ways To Help Clear Acne
Some of the most effective acne treatments that have taken the aesthetic world by storm are:
1. Chemical Peels
Chemical peels use dermatological acids like glycolic, salicylic, or mandelic acid to exfoliate the top layer of the skin. This helps unclog pores, reduce acne lesions, and improve the appearance of scars.
2. Laser Therapy
Laser treatments target the sebaceous glands, reducing oil production and killing bacteria. They are also effective for improving the texture of acne scars.
3. Microneedling
Microneedling involves creating tiny punctures in the skin using fine needles. This stimulates collagen production, which helps smooth out acne scars and improve skin texture.
4. Hydrafacial
This non-invasive procedure combines cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration to unclog pores and remove impurities. It’s a gentle treatment suitable for sensitive skin.
5. Light Therapy
Blue light therapy targets acne-causing bacteria, while red light reduces inflammation and promotes healing. This painless treatment is ideal for mild to moderate acne.
Preventing And Managing Acne
To help prevent acne from grabbing a foothold on your skin and in your life, you should definitely talk to a dermatologist and/or an aesthetician to help guide you in the right direction according to what your skin needs.
However, you can help fight the good fight by cleansing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. You should also avoid touching your face, chest, and back to prevent transferring bacteria to those acne-prone areas.
Of course, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids and staying hydrated is golden.
Here Is Our Final Take
Acne is an incredibly common skin condition. However, be that as it may, it does not have to define your confidence. There are numerous advanced and highly effective non-surgical solutions out there to help you manage your acne.
Just remember to always consult with a dermatologist or head on over to your trusted aesthetician’s clinic for a consultation BEFORE booking a treatment, as they can help you identify the most suitable one based on your skin type and the severity of your condition to ensure optimal results and great success.
With the right approach, clear and healthy skin is within reach. Best of luck!