Acne Handbook Part I
There is a common misconception that acne is a skin issue exclusive to teenagers, and that it resolves naturally as we age. However, this is far from the truth. Acne knows no age boundaries, and a significant portion of the adult population also struggles with the uncomfortable symptoms and painful pimples associated with acne.
What Is Acne?
Acne is a skin condition characterized by painful and inflamed pimples that can appear on various parts of the body, not just the face. In mild cases, excessive sebum production and the accumulation of dead skin cells often clog pores, leading to acne. In more severe cases, other underlying health issues may contribute to the development of acne.
Visible signs of acne can range from blackheads to painful, inflamed cystic lesions.
How Does Acne Develop?
Understanding the development of acne is an ongoing area of research. Currently, experts believe that a combination of the following factors contributes to its formation:
• Hyperkeratinization: Abnormal shedding of the skin’s outer layer, hindering the expulsion of sebum through the ducts, often occurring at hair follicles, leading to inflammation.
• Microbial Colonization: Overgrowth of Propionibacterium acnes bacteria on the skin.
• Sebum Production: Excessive oil production by sebaceous glands.
• Inflammatory Mechanisms: Complex inflammatory processes within the skin.
• Neuroendocrine Regulation: Interactions between the nervous system and hormonal regulation.
• Dietary Factors: Regular consumption of high glycemic index foods.
• Genetic Factors: A family history of acne may increase the risk of developing the condition.