It is most often associated with the adolescent years, but in fact, it also affects adults. The treatment is not an easy task, but thanks to strong medications and modern dermatological treatments, you can get rid of both acne and post-acne scars. Let’s discover what causes acne and learn the ways to fight it once and for all.
Acne – most common causes
Acne arises as a result of sebum overproduction, which leads to clogging of sebaceous glands. The most common causes of sebum overproduction include:
- puberty,
- disorders in the secretion of hormones,
- strong stress that negatively affects the work of sebaceous glands,
- taking certain anti-depressants or hormones.
Ways to treat acne:
Antibacterial ointments
Ointments facilitate cleansing the gland of sebum and reduce its production. The most commonly used preparations contain all-trans-acid vitamin A, azelaic acid, benzene peroxide or zinc oxide. If an inflammation develops, an ointment or gel with an antibiotic, e.g. clindamycin or erythromycin, will be necessary. These substances will alleviate symptoms and prevent the formation of new blemishes.
Oral antibiotics
If the acne is severe, the dermatologist will prescribe an oral antibiotic, usually tetracycline. In particularly severe cases, retinoids and isotretinoin are used. These preparations are very effective – they inhibit the secretion of sebum and fight bacteria, and as a consequence prevent the emergence of inflammation and minimize the risk of recurrence. Because their action is invasive, antibiotics for acne do not remain indifferent to health. Which is why your condition should be monitored regularly.
Hormonal contraception
If the cause of the appearance of acne lesions are disorders in the functioning of glands secreting sex hormones, the dermatologist directs the patient for consultation to the gynecologist-endocrinologist. In such cases, oral contraceptives with progesterone and estrogen make the best solution.
Hormonal treatment
If an abnormal level of androgens is found in the blood, the patient may opt for strong oral agents or topical treatment.
Microdermabrasion, laser therapy, and exfoliating scrubs
The microdermabrasion treatment consists in mechanical abrasion of calloused tissues using a special apparatus. the laser does not cure acne, but it is used to remove post-acne scars. Medical peeling is performed using mandelic, glycolic, pyruvic acid or TCA, and cryopeel involves freezing affected tissue with liquid nitrogen.
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