What is Acne?
Acne is a very common condition affecting up to 80% of
all adolescents. It may be a persistent disease extending
through into late adult life.
In acne there are two major abnormalities. The first is
a blockage that develops in the pore of the skin. The pore
is the exit route for oil produced by the oil glands in
the skin which then leaks out onto the surface of the skin
and lubricates it. These partial blockages are initially
microscopic and cannot be seen but as they get bigger, they
develop into blackheads and white heads.
The second and very important change is caused by an acute
blockage of the pore such that the oil accumulates deep
in the skin and this leads to the proliferation of a bacterium
within the skin that then leads to inflammation and eventual
pus formation. The bacterium that seems to cause acne is
called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) and is present
in everybody's skin, usually lodged in the hair root. This
particular bacterium is what is called an anaerobic bacterium.
That means that it can only live when there is a minimum
amount of oxygen about. The conditions within the hair follicle
are thus ideal for its natural habitat.
Some facts about acne
- Acne sufferers are currently treated with long-term oral
antibiotics or by proprietary creams which are applied to
the infested area.
- The condition causes enormous distress to millions of people,
leading a significant number to become reclusive and even
attempt suicide.
- Acne sufferers tend to be between 13 and 24 years old,
although significant numbers either carry on into their
30’s and 40’s or contract it in later life.
- It is thought that up to 80% of adolescents suffer acne
to some degree.
- There is no significant evidence that food has an effect
on acne.
- Acne is exacerbated by stress.
Some Tips for Acne Sufferers:
- Cleanse your skin with a neutral pH soap.
- If you use cosmetics look for products labelled ‘non
comedogenic’ and light possibly oil-free moisturisers.
- Try to use oil-free sunscreens; heavy sunscreens might
be suitable for your limbs but not your face.
- Always try a new product on a test area of skin for a
few days to ensure that your skin will tolerate it.
- Do not worry about diet - there is no clinical evidence
that diet affects acne.
- Try to avoid stress as it is known o aggrevate the condition.
Information courtesy of:
The Acne Support Group
PO Box 230
Hayes
Middlesex
UB4 0UT
Fax/Tel 0208 561 6868
If you are not already a member, why not join the Acne Support
Group for advice and to keep up to date with the latest
developments in acne treatment and research.
For Further information visit the website:
www.m2w3.com/acne
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