Acne is a disease consisting of inflammation of the sebaceous glands. Despite popular belief, acne is not caused by stress. It is caused by something else.
Acne is a very common problem that affects most teenagers, that is why it is known as juvenile acne and is treated by the children’s dermatology branch. There is also a type of acne that manifests itself at the age of 30-40 years that mainly affects women, in the form of more inflammatory and painful lesions in areas such as the mandibular branch and neck.
Causes of acne
Acne is multifactorial. That is, it is caused by genetic, hormonal and microbiological factors. There is a popular belief that acne is caused by poor hygiene, which is erroneous. It is also said that acne is caused by stress. Although the ordinary stress of everyday life is not a determining factor in the production of acne, it is true that in some people an excessive stressful situation can make acne worse.
Acne treatment
In the prevention and treatment of acne, it is essential to use specific moisturizing and hygiene products. In the summer, it is important to use sunscreens suitable for this type of skin.
When acne lesions appear, treatment varies according to the severity of the acne. Treatment ranges from topical treatments, with creams, to oral treatments, based on oral antibiotics. In mild cases, creams with benzoyl peroxide, retinoids and/or antibiotics are used. In moderate cases, treatment is carried out by oral treatments. As a last resort in the treatment of acne, isotretinoin is used.
Acne has a certain relationship with the patient’s diet. There are studies that show that consuming foods with a high glycemic index (chocolate, pastries, etc.) or dairy products can worsen acne. Therefore, in some cases the patient is recommended to follow a diet without excess carbohydrates.
Is it possible to eradicate acne?
The treatments available today allow good control of acne. In many patients, topical and oral treatments are used at the same time or sequentially to control acne.