The Impact of Acne as a Skin Infection and Treatment
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Discussion
Acne is a skin disease in clogged hair follicles and oil production from the sebaceous glands. It usually occurs in youth but might happen in adulthood. Approximately 50 million Americans and an estimated 650 million people globally suffer with acne. Hormones, bacteria, and oil production are causal factors of acne. The disease is thought to have a multifactorial origin, with genetic and environmental factors playing the most significant roles. Medication and lifestyle adjustments are usually prescribed to treat acne. The disorder is hypothesized to be caused by genetics, hormones, and the environment. This study focuses on blackhead acne as the most common acne. Small black spots on the skin indicate blackhead acne. These specks are blocked pores clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, and germs (Keri, 2022). Blackheads usually appear on the nose, chin, and forehead but can appear anywhere.
Risk Factors of Acne
Blackheads acne is a prevalent skin condition that affects people of all ages. It is characterized by pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads on the skin. It primarily affects young people, but it can also strike adults.(Clinic, 2022). Many different factors can contribute to the development of acne vulgaris. One of the most critical factors is hormone levels. During puberty, the body produces more hormones, which can lead to an increase in sebum production. The oily substance secreted by the sebaceous glands is known as sebum. It aids in maintaining the skin’s moisture and barrier function. However, an excess of sebum can cause acne by blocking the hair follicles and pores. Acne can also be triggered by greasy cosmetics, stress, poor eating habits, heredity, and even some medications including lithium, corticosteroids, and androgens. Acne is not a dangerous condition, but it can cause physical and emotional distress (Keri, 2022). Dermatologists are skin specialists who can help treat and improve the skin conditions like acne vulgaris.
Treatment of Acne
Many treatments are available for acne vulgaris, ranging from over-the-counter to prescription medications. Over-the-counter treatments include topical creams, gels, and lotions containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids. These treatments can be effective in mild to moderate cases of acne. Prescription treatments for acne vulgaris include oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy, and isotretinoin. Oral antibiotics reduce the inflammation and bacteria associated with acne (Keri, 2022). Hormonal therapy can be used in women with acne aggravated by hormonal fluctuations.
Isotretinoin is a powerful medication used in severe or resistant acne cases. It is taken as a pill and can have serious side effects, so it is usually only prescribed as a last resort. Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that are applied to the skin. They work by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. Antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria that cause acne. Benzoyl peroxide works by reducing the amount of oil produced by the skin. Isotretinoin is a medication that is taken orally. It works by reducing the production of oil by the skin. Hormonal therapy treats acne in women (Keri, 2022). It works by regulating the hormones that cause the skin to produce oil. Blackheads acne is a chronic condition that requires long-term treatment. The goal of treatment is to reduce the number of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Treatment can take several months to achieve this goal.
Prognosis of the disease
The prognosis of acne vulgaris is variable. Most people with acne will have some improvement with over-the-counter treatments (Keri, 2022). However, some people will continue to have significant acne and require prescription medications. Some people may also develop scars from their acne. Blackheads acne is a chronic condition that can last for years (Clinic, 2022). However, it usually improves over time. Some people may have occasional flare-ups, even after their acne has cleared.
References
Clinic, C. (2022). Blackheads: What They Look Like, Treatment & Prevention. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22038-blackheads#:~:text=Blackheads%20are%20a%20type%20of
Keri, J. E. (2022, August). Acne Vulgaris – Dermatologic Disorders. MSD Manual Professional Edition. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/acne-and-related-disorders/acne-vulgaris
