Acne is one of the most common problems in adolescents. Acne can be in the form of blackheads or pimples mainly on the face, neck, back and arms. Acne not only scars the skin but can also scar a patient’s self-image and confidence. However, under the supervision of the qualified dermatologist, even refractory cases, with severe hormonal imbalances can be completely cured. The majority of 11 to 30-year-olds will experience acne at some point in their lives. It influences both men and women, but younger men are more likely to get acne due to the presence of higher amounts of male hormone which can intensify the condition. If you haven’t gotten acne yet, you are one of the fortunate few! However, most of us have experienced acne at one point in time.

Aggravating factors – There can be innumerable factors which exacerbate acne, some of them are as follows:

  • Emotional problems or stress
  • Using wrong cosmetics
  • Use of occlusive oils or gels for hair and face
  • Consumption of food high in glycemic index
  • Drugs such as steroids, androgens etc.
  • Body building proteins.

Management of acne includes a multipronged approach which involves

  • Prompt acne management ensuring they do not leave scars, 
  • Stopping the trigger of acne by targeting the culprit hormonal imbalance,
  • Addressing your pigmentation concerns,
  • Avoiding the acne aggravating factors, 
  • Following the right diet, helping you follow the right skin care routine 
  • Treating your acne scars.

While mild acne may improve with topical antibiotics and retinoid, (some topical help kill the bacteria, others work on reducing the oil), patients with moderate acne may require oral antibiotics which help to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. Patients with severe acne may need to be started on oral retinoids (the only treatment that works on all the causes of acne), or may require a detailed hormonal assay to rule out polycystic ovaries etc. Birth control pills and other medicine that works on hormones can be helpful for women and some cases of adult onset acne may require anti androgen.

For patients who have mild acne and do not require oral medications or those who want to avoid oral medications, there is an option of a  mild peel that reduces acne, black heads, open pores, post acne pigmentation and scars or an option of Acne Clean Up, which is designed to clean the skin having superficial blemishes and unclog and cleanse pores.