Acne Cause and treatment

Acne is the medical term for pimples. It is a common problem and many suffer from it.
Causes
Acne is caused by hormonal changes that take place as young people mature from childhood to adolescence (puberty). The hormones that cause physical maturation also cause the sebaceous (oil) glands of the skin to produce more sebum (oil). The hormones most commonly responsible for these changes are androgens (male hormones), which are present in both females as well as males, but in higher amounts in males.
In addition, a normal skin bacteria called 'P acnes', begins to multiply rapidly in the clogged hair follicle. These bacteria produce irritating substances that can cause inflammation. Sometimes, the wall of the follicle bursts, spreading inflammation to the surrounding skin. This is the process by which acne lesions, from whiteheads and blackheads to pimples to nodules are formed.

Who can get acne?
A majority of patients are in the adolescent age group. Usually,acne begins at puberty and is gone by the early 20s. In some cases, acne may persist into adulthood. Such types of acne include more severe forms that affect the body as well as the face (more in males than in females) and acne associated with the menstrual cycle in women which may go into older women.
Some patients may not show any signs of acne until adulthood. Such acne is more likely to affect women. There are several reasons for this. As females get older, the pattern of changes in hormones may dispose sebaceous glands to develop acne.
Other causes include ovarian cysts and pregnancy which also cause hormonal changes that lead to acne. Some women get acne when they discontinue birth control pills which may have in fact been keeping their acne under control.

Some FAQs
Does frequent washing help reduce acne?
Many people still believe that acne is caused by dirty skin. However, washing alone will not clear up or prevent acne. Washing does, however, help remove excess surface oils and dead skin cells. Since other factors cause acne, one should consult a dermatologist and use appropriate acne treatments.
Does stress cause acne?
Stress is commonly implicated as one of the causes of acne. Stress has many physiological effects on the body, including changes in hormones that may theoretically lead to an aggravation of acne. In some cases, stress may actually be caused by the acne lesions, not the other way around. If the acne is being treated effectively,stress is not usually likely to have much impact on a majority of people.
Is diet control important in acne?
Acne is not caused by food. Following a strict diet will not clear your skin. Many patients feel that their acne is aggravated by certain foods, particularly chocolate, colas, peanuts, shellfish and some fatty foods. There is no scientific evidence that suggests food causes or influences acne. It is still important however,to avoid any foods which seem to worsen your acne and, for your overall health, eat a balanced diet. If your acne is being appropriately treated then diet shouldn't really matter.
What is the best way to treat acne?
Everyone's acne must be treated individually. If you did not get good results from over-the-counter acne products you might have tried,you must consider seeing a dermatologist. Your dermatologist will decide which treatments are best for you.The focus of acne treatment is now treating active lesions and preventing acne rather than waiting for treatment. This slightly more aggressive treatment approach is beneficial in terms of preventing scars and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne.
Your dermatologist will decide what treatment plan will work for your degree of acne and your skin type, and will formulate an individual plan to suit your skin to give you the best cosmetic result.