Acne: Cause, Treatment, Types And Skincare

Acne is a prevalent skin condition affecting millions worldwide, transcending age and gender. While its common causes and treatments are widely discussed, delving deeper into lesser-known aspects can provide a more comprehensive understanding and effective management strategies.

 

Uncommon Causes of Acne

1. Mechanical Factors:

Beyond hormonal imbalances and genetics, physical factors can contribute to acne development. Conditions like acne mechanica arise from friction, pressure, or heat against the skin. This can result from tight clothing, helmet straps, or even frequent use of certain musical instruments.

2. Environmental Triggers:

Exposure to specific environmental conditions can exacerbate acne. For instance, acne aestivalis, also known as Mallorca acne, is induced by ultraviolet A radiation and typically emerges in springtime, subsiding in autumn. 

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Acne Treatments: Accessible Solutions for Clearer Skin

Managing acne effectively often begins with over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, which are readily available and can be highly effective for mild to moderate cases. These products contain active ingredients that target various aspects of acne development, such as clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation.
Some of the key OTC acne treatment ingredients include:

1. Benzoyl Peroxide:

This ingredient is renowned for its antibacterial properties, effectively reducing acne-causing bacteria on the skin. It also helps to clear pores and reduce inflammation. Benzoyl peroxide is available in various concentrations, typically ranging from 2.5% to 10%. Starting with a lower concentration can help minimize potential skin irritation.

2. Salicylic Acid:

A beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin, salicylic acid aids in unclogging pores and preventing new acne lesions. It’s particularly effective for blackheads and whiteheads. Commonly found in cleansers, toners, and spot treatments, concentrations usually range from 0.5% to 2%.

3. Adapalene:

A topical retinoid, adapalene helps regulate skin cell turnover, preventing pores from becoming clogged. It’s effective for both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne. Adapalene 0.1% gel is available OTC and is typically applied once daily.

4. Azelaic Acid:

This ingredient has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to prevent pores from becoming plugged and can also improve post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. OTC products usually contain a 10% concentration.

5. Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives):

Retinol, such as Retin-A®, Tazorac® and Differin®, which is available without a prescription, breaks up blackheads and whiteheads and helps prevent clogged pores, the first signs of acne. 

Enhancing Treatment Efficacy

Consistency is Key: 

Regular application of OTC treatments as directed is essential. It is important to note that visible improvements may take several weeks.

Moisturization:

Incorporate a non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent dryness and irritation, which can result from active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

Sun Protection:

Some acne treatments can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily can prevent sunburn and further skin damage.

The Role of pH in Acne Treatment

An often-overlooked factor in acne management is the skin’s pH level. Maintaining an optimal skin pH (slightly acidic, around 4.5 to 5.5) is crucial for preserving the skin’s barrier function and microbiome balance. Disruptions in pH can lead to an environment conducive to acne development. Selecting products that support the skin’s natural pH can enhance treatment efficacy.

How can I make my acne go away at home?

If you have acne, you can start an at-home skin care routine to help your acne go away by:

• Wash your skin at least once daily with warm (not hot) water and a gentle cleanser. Cleansers are over-the-counter skin care products that help clean your skin.
• Wash your skin after you exercise or sweat.
• Avoid using skin care products with alcohol, astringents, toners and exfoliants, which can irritate your skin.
• Remove makeup at the end of the day or before you go to bed.
• Choose an oil-free moisturizer to apply on your skin after cleansing.
• Avoid popping, picking or squeezing your acne. Let your skin heal naturally to prevent scars from forming on your skin.

If your at-home skin care routine isn’t effective at treating acne, visit a healthcare provider.

The Psychological Impact of Acne

Beyond physical manifestations, acne can significantly affect mental health:

Emotional Well-being:

Persistent acne can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and lowered self-esteem. Recognizing and addressing these psychological effects is crucial for holistic treatment.

Behavioral Responses:

Conditions like excoriated acne, where individuals compulsively pick at their skin, can exacerbate scarring and prolong healing. Understanding these behaviours is essential for effective intervention.

Dietary Insights

While the link between diet and acne remains a topic of research, certain dietary factors have been observed. Some studies suggest that high-glycemic-load diets and dairy consumption may influence acne severity.

How long does it take for acne to go away?

On average, it can take between 1-2 weeks for acne to clear up on their own.

With medicated treatment and a good skin care routine, you can speed up your body’s healing time to make acne go away faster.

For severe acne, it can take several weeks for your acne to go away, even with treatment.

 

How can I prevent acne?

You can’t completely prevent acne, especially during hormone changes, but you can reduce your risk of developing acne by:

• Washing your face daily with warm water and a facial cleanser.
• Using an oil-free moisturizer.
• Wearing “noncomedogenic” makeup products and removing makeup at the end of each day.
• Keeping your hands away from your face.

 

Innovative Treatments on the Horizon

Traditional acne treatments often focus on surface symptoms, but recent advancements in the scientific community has aimed to address root causes:

Bacteriophage Therapy:

A novel approach involves using bacteriophages viruses that target and neutralise acne-causing bacteria. This method offers a natural solution, potentially reducing reliance on antibiotics.

Laser Treatments:

Technologies like AviClear utilize specific laser wavelengths to target overactive sebaceous glands, reducing sebum production and subsequent breakouts.

 

Conclusion

Acne is a multifaceted condition influenced by various factors beyond the commonly acknowledged causes. By exploring these lesser-known aspects, individuals can adopt a more informed and comprehensive approach to acne management.