Acne Treatment in Gurgaon: Symptoms, Causes, and Precautions
Discover the journey to clearer skin as we delve into the world of acne in this informative blog. From debunking myths to unveiling effective treatments, we navigate through the intricacies of managing acne.
Join us as we explore expert insights, practical tips, and the role of trusted destinations like Six Sigma Clinics in this transformative skincare experience. Get ready to unlock a path towards healthier, radiant skin.
What is Acne?
Acne vulgaris, commonly known as the condition called Acne, is the chronic inflammation of the pilosebaceous unit. The pilosebaceous unit includes the hair follicle, hair shaft, and sebaceous glands. It is a complex, dynamic, 3-D structure. It acts as the site of unique biochemical, metabolical, and immunological events.
Acne is estimated to occur through the mutual influence of 4 collaborating factors. What occurs first is hyperplasia of the sebaceous gland, leading to excessive sebum production. This reaction results in hyperkeratinization of the hair follicle, preventing normal shedding of follicular keratinocytes and therefore obstructing the follicle and forming a microcomedo.
Cellular debris and lipids accumulate, and this environment aids the colonization of Propionibacterium acnes, resulting in an inflammatory response. The follicle may rupture, resulting in leakage of bacteria, fatty acids, and lipids into the dermis.
How Common is It?
One of the most common dermatologic diseases in the world is Acne. It is estimated that it affects 9.4% of the global population. Although this condition can make an appearance at any age, results from studies have demonstrated that it is most common in post-pubescent teens.
What Can Cause Acne?
Acne can be caused due to excessive bacteria, oil production, abnormal shedding of hair follicles, and excess activity of androgynous hormones, such as testosterone. Also, age, friction against the skin, genetics, and working near fryer vats can lead to acne.
Factors that may play a part in aggravating acne include excessive secretion of hormones, side effects of certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids, lithium, and testosterone), certain foods (eg, bread, chocolate, chips, and skim milk), and stress.
What are the Symptoms of Acne?
The signs and symptoms of acne are dependent on the severity of the condition. Open and clogged pores indicate blackheads. Cystic lesions are painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin. Nodules refer to large, painful, solid lumps beneath the skin. Small red, tender bumps are Papules. Pustules (pimples) are the same as papules but with pus at their tips. Whiteheads occur when pores are closed and plugged.
How Can it be Avoided?
Although it is difficult to completely prevent all types of acne, there are some tips and tricks that, if followed, can keep it to a minimum. Using non-comedogenic (not acne-producing) products like cleansers, makeup, moisturizers, and sunscreens can be of great help. Also, keeping the hands away from the face is helpful since every time people touch their faces, they transfer more dirt and oil onto the skin which will eventually lead to acne. Avoid the urge to pick, pop, and squeeze pimples, as it could lead to infections and increased scarring.
How is it Treated?
Nonprescription Treatment
Washing the face gently with soap and water twice every day and after sweating can help prevent acne. However, it will not clear up existing acne. Aggressive scrubbing of the face can injure the skin, worsen acne, and cause additional skin problems.
Here are a few ingredients to look out for in your anti-acne cosmetics:
Benzoyl Peroxide: Mild acne can be treated by using Benzoyl peroxide, available as gels, creams, washes, and lotions. It eradicates the bacteria which is associated with acne. This will take around 4 weeks to work, and it has to be used every day. It does not decrease sebum generation or alter the way the skin follicle cells fall off. Therefore, when discontinued, the acne condition will rebound. One downside of using benzoyl peroxide is that it stains fabric.
Glycolic and Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid which is available in lotions, creams, and pads, helps resolve the irregular shedding of cells. In the case of mild acne, it can help unclog pores to resolve lesions. Since, it does not decrease the amount of sebum produced or kill bacteria, as benzoyl peroxide does, it needs to be used continuously.
Sulfur: Sulfur is used together with other ingredients, such as alcohol and/or salicylic acid. The mechanism of action is not known, and sulfur showcases only little benefit in most cases.
Rubbing alcohol is a mild antimicrobial agent, and topical acetone takes away oils from the skin. These are ingredients that are in many acne remedies but are typically not recommended by dermatologists, as they have very few benefits and may lead to dry skin.
Retinol: Topical retinol gel is helpful in decreasing the creation of acne by altering the growth of cells and decreasing inflammation. It will take around 8 to 12 weeks to see results with retinol.
Prescription Treatment
Both oral and topical antibiotics work by decreasing bacteria that cause acne and inflammation but do not affect the other causal factors of acne. Topical antibiotics are available as gels, creams, pads, lotions, and solutions that do not easily penetrate the skin which leaves deeper infections untouched. Unlike topical antibiotics, systemic antibiotics do reach the sebaceous glands and are a good choice for the treatment of severe acne.
Azelaic acid is available as a gel or a topical cream which is usually used for rosacea but can improve the condition of one suffering from acne. Azelaic acid, like topical antibiotics, has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Dapsone gel is another topical gel with similar actions.
Isotretinoin is the most effective treatment for severe cystic acne, as it affects the causes. This medication has harsh side effects, including, an increase in the risk of depression, inflammatory bowel disease, and severe birth defects. Some less severe side effects include dryness of the skin and the lips, elevated triglycerides, headache, joint and muscle pain, and thinning of hair.
Retinoids, or vitamin A derivatives, are available in the form of oral and topical preparations. Topical formulations are mostly used to treat acne with severity ranging from moderate to severe by altering the way skin grows and sheds. They are often used in unison with other acne products, such as oral antibiotics and benzoyl peroxide. Side effects of these topical therapies include itchy skin, dryness, and redness.
What Next?
To decrease emotional and physical consequences, this disease needs to be diagnosed and treated early and effectively. Although acne vulgaris is not a dangerous condition, it can leave emotional and physical scars. Emotional aftermath outcomes can decrease self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and thoughts of suicide. The lasting physical aftermath can range from minor to major scarring with hyperpigmentation. Areas majorly affected by acne include the back, face, chest, and shoulders. Men get affected both more frequently and more severely than women.
If the condition persists and it becomes severe or causes emotional distress, consult a dermatologist. A professional has the ability to provide personalized recommendations and treatment options suitable to your skin's needs. Remember that responses to treatments can vary depending on the individual. It is of utmost importance that a consistent skincare routine is adopted, maintenance of good hygiene is practiced, and professional guidance is sought out when needed so that there is effective management and treatment of acne.
Best Dermatologist in Gurgaon
If you are currently on the lookout for a dermatologist in Gurgaon and want the best available treatment for your acne, you can look through the list of accomplished and skillful doctors at Six Sigma Clinics, Nirvana Country, Gurgaon. Our specialty-trained and attentive dermatologists have recognized expertise in assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with acne so that they can have a pleasant, scar-free experience with the condition.