Acne is an inflammatory condition of the skin's pilosebaceous unit. It usually appears with hormonal changes during puberty but can occur at any age. Many different triggers can be involved, including an unsuitable diet, stress, hormonal conditions, certain medications and poor skin care. Acne lesions are seen on the face, back, chest and shoulders:
Comedones: blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones).
Papules and pustules: inflamed, red and raised pimples.
Nodules and cysts: deeper, painful and firm forms of acne.
Acne treatment options depend on the severity of the condition. Depending on the patient's needs, topical treatments (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, topical antibiotics) and oral medications (antibiotics, hormonal treatments, isotretinoin) are used. Medical skin care, peels, microneedling and laser treatments are supportive methods for both clearing acne scars and controlling active acne.
Regular skin care, choosing the right products and patience are all important in acne treatment. The treatment process should be planned by a dermatologist.