Acne vulgaris

definition

Acne vulgaris is a very common skin disease that mainly affects the hair follicles and their sebum glands. It is characterized by the frequent occurrence of pimples and blackheads (Comedones) in body regions with many sebum glands, mainly on the face, back and chest. Although the condition is harmless in itself, acne can also lead to psychological problems such as decreased self-esteem and depression.

General

Among the various diseases that come under the collective term acne be summarized is the Acne vulgaris by far the most common disease. In approximately 75 – 95 % of adolescents and young adults are affected by acne vulgaris in varying degrees of severity. Depending on the severity, the acne can be with Anoint or Tablets but a visit to the dermatologist is always a good idea to avoid further aggravation of the disease Scarring and mental health problems to prevent.

More information on the subject Acne vulgaris can be found in the skin particle acne.

Symptoms of acne vulgaris

The most common symptoms of acne vulgaris are blackheads (Comedones), Nodules (papules) and inflamed pus pimples with a white plug of pus. In inflamed pimples, the penetration of bacteria into the lower layers of the skin and the resulting inflammation can also lead to scarring. In addition to the organic symptoms, the external changes often lead to psychological problems, as those affected can withdraw from society and become depressed.

Read more on the subject at: Inflammation of the sebum - this must be observed!

Cause of acne vulgaris

Acne vulgaris develops due to an obstruction of the drainage of the sebum glands on the hair follicles. In people who are not affected by acne vulgaris, the sebum glands on the hair follicles constantly produce sebum (Sebum), which acts like a kind of natural skin cream on the skin where the hair comes out of the skin. If you are affected by acne vulgaris, these ducts for the sebum clog.
The reason for this is that the number of cells in this duct is too high, so that there is too much keratin and the duct clogs. If this accumulated sebum becomes infected with bacteria found in the hair follicles, it can lead to larger pimples and inflammations, which can also lead to scars.

The reason for the blockage of the sebum glands can have many causes. It is now assumed that the changes in the sebum glands in both men and women are caused by male sex hormones (androgens). This also explains why acne vulgaris most commonly occurs during puberty.
Likewise, the woman's menstrual cycle and the associated hormonal fluctuations are considered to be the cause of acne vulgaris. In addition, studies have shown that acne vulgaris can be inherited to some extent and therefore occurs more frequently in some families. Studies have not yet shown whether the development of acne vulgaris is related to diet. However, it is assumed that a diet rich in carbohydrates does not favor the course of acne vulgaris.

also read: What happens in puberty?

diagnosis

The diagnosis The acne vulgaris is usually dated Dermatologist based on the visible findings on the affected parts of the body posed. Depending on the frequency of the skin changes occurring, the acne can turn into a easy, middle, heavy and very severe acne be divided. The classification is relevant for the therapy options.

Treatment of acne vulgaris

For the treatment of acne vulgaris there are countless therapy options that can be used depending on the stage and severity of the acne. In the past, the only treatment option was to take advantage of the sun's rays, which also explains why many sufferers complain less problems in spring and summer.
In general, a certain degree of skin hygiene should be observed, but it is also important not to wash and apply too much cream, as this can further stimulate sebum production. Which cosmetics are most suitable for treating mild acne also depends on the skin type and should be decided in consultation with a dermatologist and pharmacist.

For mild and more severe forms of acne, an ointment with dibenzoyl peroxide is recommended as the first therapy. A combination of the ointment with antibiotics, which can be used either orally or as an ointment, can be useful for those affected who also often complain of inflamed skin areas. Women can often regulate the symptoms of acne vulgaris by taking the pill.

The drug class of isotretionoids is used especially for more severe forms of acne vulgaris. Since these drugs are potentially teratogenic, they may only be taken by women who currently do not want to have children. These medications usually have to be taken for six months and almost always lead to a significant improvement or even complete disappearance of acne vulgaris.

Scratching or squeezing pimples is not recommended as it allows more bacteria to penetrate the skin and pushes the inflamed sebum deeper into the skin, which can lead to scarring.

The scars caused by severe forms of acne vulgaris can be reduced by a dermatologist using laser therapy. Read more about this form of treatment below: Laser scars

Home remedies can also be used for acne. You can find more information on the topic here: Home remedies for acne, home remedies for pimples

Prophylaxis and prognosis

Because acne mainly genetic and hormonal Prophylaxis is hardly possible. However, one should healthy eating and one appropriate Skin hygiene be respected. Usually the acne vulgaris around that disappears 20 years of age, but can also continue to exist for a few years, but then often significantly milder Shape.