Acne Vulgaris, one the most common skin problems in North
America affects 85% of adolescents and occurs more frequently
in boys than in girls. Although most people experience acne between
the ages of 9 -17 years, it can either persist until or occur
during adulthood as well. Severe acne may lead to permanent scarring
and can be a source of significant psychological effects including
anxiety, embarrassment and shame, especially during adolescence.
What causes acne?
Acne is a problem of the sebaceous glands, which are found in
the skin. Ordinarily these glands produce "sebum" an oily substance
that lubricates and protects the skin. Just before puberty, many
hormones are made in the body, some of which actually stimulate
the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. This blocks the glands'
openings or ducts and gives rise to a closed comedo (whitehead).
As the gland expands, it becomes an open comedo filled
with darker material (blackhead). If bacteria (normally found
on the skin), gets into the pimple, it will cause an infection
creating pus and redness. In severe cases the pimple becomes quite
big and is called nodulocystic. Depending on the progression,
acne can range from mild, with small whiteheads without scarring,
to the nodulocystic type with severe scarring.
Is acne hereditary?
It is thought that the tendency to develop acne is hereditary
although the exact genetic pattern is not well understood.
Does diet or stress make acne worse?
Many myths exist about diet and acne. These have been dispelled
by studies that have shown that foods such as chocolate, cola
drinks, milk, ice cream, fatty foods and shellfish do not cause
nor worsen acne. However, although it is not clear why, emotional
stress especially in girls, may make acne worse.
On what part of the body does acne occur?
Since it is a problem of the sebaceous glands, acne affects areas
of the body with the highest number of these glands including
the face, neck, chest, and upper back.
What can make acne worse?
Repetitive pressure or rubbing of the skin by articles such as
turtlenecks, bra straps, shoulder pads and helmets may worsen
acne. Tight clothing, rubbing or picking the skin may also make
acne worse.
How is acne treated?
The type and specific form(lotion, gel, cream or oral) of the
treatment depends on the severity of the acne: This can range
from simple topical treatment such as Retinoids, to Benzoyl Peroxide
and antibiotics, and to oral Isoretinoin in severe cases. Generally,
the more severe cases are treated by a dermatologist. What is
important however, is that Acne Vulgaris, regardless of
its severity, not be taken lightly if it becomes a source of emotional
stress in teenagers. Other Adolescent
Health and Wellness Topics
The information provided in this site is
designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to
replace the advice and care of your child's physician, nor is
it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If
you suspect that your child has a medical condition, always
consult a physician.
