Have you ever seen those red bumps on your face filled with a little pus? Has it been annoying you? Is it ruining your day ahead?
Then, you’ve got acne!
Acne is a benign yet troublesome skin condition that could ruin anybody’s day! When you think that you’ve got your day all wrapped up, acne could sneak and ruin your day.
Acne scars can leave you emotionally distressed by causing anxiety, and affecting your self-esteem and confidence levels. However, all these could be prevented through a proper dermatological consult.
Acne peels are effective treatments for acne scars! They make your face peel thus revealing a new layer of skin that’s fresh and new!
Learn more about acne and what you can do to be acne free!
What is acne?
Tiny holes in your skin called pores can become clogged and blocked by bacteria, oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. When your pores get blocked, it may form a pimple or a “zit.” If you have recurring pimples or zits, you may have the condition known as acne.
Most dermatologists from around the world agree that acne is the most prevalent skin condition. Though acne is common, it is far from being a life-threatening condition. However, acne can be painful and annoying, especially when the case is severe. Furthermore, it can cause emotional distress in the affected individual.
Facial acne can significantly affect your self-esteem and confidence levels. Also, aside from emotional distress, over time, when acne is not treated, it can cause physical acne scarring.
There are many effective acne treatments in the market that can reduce the number of pimples present on your face and your chance of having acne scars.
What are the symptoms of acne?
Acne can be found virtually anywhere in the body. However, it is most often noticed on your face. It commonly develops in areas like your face, back, neck, chest, and shoulders.
When you have acne, you will notice pimples that are either white or black in color. Both of these are known as comedones and can be in the form of whiteheads or blackheads.
Blackheads are black in appearance because they open at the surface of your skin, and they react with the oxygen in the air. Whiteheads, on the other hand, are closed just beneath the surface of your skin. Thus they have a white appearance.
Other types of acne could also occur despite whiteheads and blackheads being the most common lesions seen in acne. Inflammatory lesions are more likely to cause scarring, thus leading to acne scars. Inflammatory lesions include papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts.
- Papules are small, red, raised bumps caused by infected or inflamed hair follicles.
- Pustules are small, red pimples that are filled with pus.
- Nodules are solid and painful lumps under your skin.
- Cysts are large lumps found under your skin that are painful and contain pus.
Some fast facts about acne include the following:
- Acne is a skin condition that involves your sebaceous glands at the base of your hair follicles.
- It is benign and is not a life-threatening condition, but it could lead to acne scars.
- Its prevalence is 3 in every 4 people aged 11 to 30 years old.
- Risk factors of acne include genetics, anxiety, and stress, using comedogenic makeup, the menstrual cycle, and squeezing pimples.
- Treatment depends on how severe and persistent is acne.
Some myths regarding what contributes to and causes acne are quite common. Many people often believe that certain foods, such as french fries or chocolate, will create an acne outbreak. Up until now, there is no scientific evidence that can support these claims. However, risk factors still exist for developing acne.
Factors like hormonal changes caused by puberty or puberty, certain medications like birth control pills and corticosteroids, a carbohydrate-rich diet, and genetics.
When a person is going through puberty, he or she is at a higher risk of developing acne. During this period, your body goes through hormonal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger oil production, leading to a heightened risk of acne. Acne brought about by hormonal changes usually subsides or at least improves during adulthood.
Types of acne
The term “breakout” is used to describe all acne forms, but this is not always the case. Not all types of acne spread across the skin. By itself, clogged pores can cause acne. Pore blockage can be influenced by several factors such as dead skin cells, hormones, bacteria, ingrown hairs, and excess oil production.
Acne is usually associated during your teenage years. It is due to the hormonal fluctuations that you experience in your teenage years. However, adults can still experience acne. Dermatologists agree that both adults and children can have acne making it one of the most common skin conditions around.
Proper identification of the type of acne you’re experiencing is crucial to successful treatment. Acne may be inflammatory or noninflammatory. Subtypes of acne within these two categories include cysts, nodules, pustules, papules, whiteheads, and blackheads.
Visiting a dermatologist is one of the best ways to treat and fight off acne since it’s possible to have multiple types of acne at once, with some being severe enough to need professional treatment.
Noninflammatory acne
Blackheads and whiteheads comprise noninflammatory acne. These don’t usually cause swelling, and they are responsive to over-the-counter (OTC) treatments.
Salicylic acid usually works best on noninflammatory acne despite being marketed for acne in general. It naturally exfoliates the skin and removes dead skin cells that cause blackheads and whiteheads. Try to look for it in cleansers, toners, and moisturizers.
Blackheads
When a pore is blocked by a combination of oil and dead skin cells, blackheads occur. Although the rest of the pore is clogged, the top of the pore stays open. The characteristic black color seen on the surface is due to the oxidation in the air.
Whiteheads
Whiteheads form in the same way as blackheads. However, unlike blackheads, the top of the pore closes up. Thus it looks like a small bump protruding from the skin.
Whiteheads are harder to treat compared to blackheads since the pores are already closed. Salicylic acid-containing products may still be helpful. Topical retinoids, however, give the best results for treating comedonal acne. Adapalene (Differin) is available as an over-the-counter treatment for your whiteheads. If it still doesn’t work for you, prescription-strength retinoids are available from your dermatologist.
Inflammatory acne
Pimples that are red and inflamed are referred to as inflammatory acne. Although both oil and dead skin cells contribute to this type of acne, bacteria usually plays a role in clogging up your pores. The presence of bacteria can cause an infection beneath your skin’s surface. It can result in painful acne that can be troublesome to get rid of.
Products with the active ingredient benzoyl peroxide may help reduce swelling and rid of bacteria present within the skin. It can also remove excess oil. Your dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics that are either oral or topical together with benzoyl peroxide to treat your inflammatory acne. Topical retinoids are also an essential component in fighting off inflammatory acne.
Papules
Papules happen when the walls surrounding your pores break down from severe inflammation. The result is a hard, clogged pore that is tender to the touch. The skin surrounding the pore is usually pink.
Pustules
Pustules also form when the walls around your pores break down. However, one distinguishing feature compared with papules is that they are filled with pus. These pus-filled bumps come out from your skin and are red in color. They contain pus that is usually white to yellow in color.
Nodules
Nodules occur when clogged, and swollen pores undergo further irritation and grow bigger. Nodules are located more buried under the skin, unlike pustules and papules, usually not deep.
Since nodules are located deep within the skin, home treatment is not possible. Prescription medications are necessary to treat them properly.
Your dermatologist will most probably prescribe the oral medication, isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is made from a form of vitamin A and is taken daily for four to six months. It treats and prevents other nodules from growing by decreasing oil gland size within your pores.
Cysts
Cysts develop when pores are blocked out by a combination of bacteria, sebum, and dead skin cells. The blockage occurs so deep within the skin and is even more profound than nodules.
Cysts are large red or white bumps that are painful to the touch. They are the most extensive and most severe form of acne. It usually results from a severe infection and is most likely to leave acne scars.
Prescription isotretinoin is usually used to treat cysts. However, in severe cases, your dermatologist will recommend that you have your cyst surgically removed.
How severe is each type of acne?
The mildest forms of acne are blackheads and whiteheads. They are responsive and could be cleared up quickly by OTC topical medications such as salicylic acid-based toners or benzoyl peroxide spot treatments. If they are not responsive to these OTC medications, then topical retinoids can quickly treat them. Adapalene, for example, can now be bought over the counter. It is instrumental in clearing blackheads and whiteheads.
Pustules and papules are more moderate forms of acne. They may or may not respond to OTC treatments. Substantial, moderate acne may require either a topical or oral prescription medication from a dermatologist.
Nodules and cysts are the most severe forms of acne. You need to see a dermatologist treat severe acne. Home remedies and OTC treatments will not work with these types of acne. Never pop or pick them since it could lead to scarring.
What you can do now
Patience is vital when you are treating acne. Some treatments may work immediately, but others may take months to see the full effects. You should also note that you need to take caution in using too many acne products at once, as this could cause dry skin. Dry skin can have a slew of problems; one of them is excessive oil production, which could worsen your acne.
Seeing a dermatologist is the only way that you’ll get an effective and working acne treatment due. In some cases, acne can only be cleared if a dermatologist appropriately manages it.
What causes acne?
When the pores of your skin become clogged with sebum, bacteria, and dead skin cells, acne occurs.
Every pore of your skin opens up to a follicle that is made up of a hair strand and a sebaceous or oil gland.
Sebum (oil) keeps your skin supple and moist. The sebaceous (oil) gland releases oil, which travels to the hair from your pore and onto your skin.
Several factors or issues in the process of lubrication can cause acne. Factors like having excessive oil production in your follicles, dead skin cells accumulating in your pores, and build-up of bacteria in your pores. All these are contributory factors to the development of pimples. A pimple appears when bacteria infect a clogged pore, and the oil is unable to escape.
How is acne diagnosed?
If you have symptoms of acne, the best person to make a diagnosis is a dermatologist. Your dermatologist can make a diagnosis by examining your skin. He or she will identify the types of lesions and determine their severity to tailor your specific treatment.
How is acne treated?
Acne could be treated at home using some remedies and some self-care activities. These remedies and actions can help prevent the occurrence of pimples and clear up your acne.
Some home remedies for acne include cleaning your skin with mild soap to remove excess oil and dirt, shampooing your hair daily, and keeping your hair out your face, using non comedogenic makeup or water-based makeup, avoiding to squeeze or pick your pimples, and avoiding to touch your face.
Medication
Medication for acne is often used if simple home care remedies don’t work. If self-care doesn’t work, OTC medications are available in the market. Most, if not all, of these medications, contain active ingredients that help kill bacteria or reduce the amount of oil in your skin.
- Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most popular active ingredients used in many acne creams and gels. It works by drying out existing pimples and preventing the growth of new ones. It also kills acne-causing bacteria.
- Sulfur is also another popular ingredient in many OTC acne products. It is known for its distinctive smell.
- Resorcinol is also another ingredient that is used to remove dead skin cells, thus unclogging pores.
- Salicylic acid is a popular exfoliant that removes dead skin cells and prevents pores from getting clogged. It is found in a lot of washes, cleansers, and toners.
Sometimes, despite treating yourself with OTC acne medications, you may still experience acne symptoms. In that case, seeking professional help from a dermatologist is advised. He or she will prescribe medications that can help alleviate your symptoms and prevent acne scars.
Oral or topical antibiotics kill bacteria that cause pimples and reduce inflammation from your acne. Usually, you are only prescribed a short course of antibiotics so that your body doesn’t develop resistance to the bacteria and leave you more prone to infections. Always remember not to skip your course of antibiotics. Doing so also contributes to antimicrobial resistance.
Prescription topical creams that contain retinoic acid or prescription-strength benzoyl peroxide is usually stronger than OTC treatments. They work by reducing oil production. For example, prescription-strength benzoyl peroxide is a bactericidal agent that also prevents antimicrobial resistance to antibiotics. Also, it has comedone-destroying and anti-inflammatory properties.
Spironolactone or birth control pills may be prescribed to women with hormonal imbalances. These medications work by decreasing oil production through hormone regulation.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) is prescribed as a treatment of last resort for cases of severe nodular acne. It is a vitamin A-based medication that needs to be only used under the supervision of a dermatologist.
With medical management, your dermatologist may also recommend you undergo procedures to treat your severe acne and prevent any acne scars from occurring. These procedures remove damaged skin and reduce oil production.
Photodynamic therapy uses medication and a special light or laser to kill bacteria and reduce oil production. Other lasers may also be employed to help improve acne scars and acne itself.
Dermabrasion is a procedure wherein the top layers of your skin are removed with the help of a rotating brush. It is best used for treating acne scars rather than being an acne treatment. Microdermabrasion is a milder alternative also for treating acne scars and removing dead skin cells.
Acne peels remove the top layers of your skin using chemicals that aid the peeling process. The peel removes the top layer of your skin to reveal the less damaged skin underneath. Acne peels are particularly useful for mild acne scarring.
Your dermatologist sometimes suggests cortisone injections if you have sizable cystic acne. Cortisone is a steroid that is naturally occurring in the human body. It helps to reduce inflammation and aid the healing process. It is usually coupled with other acne treatments.
What is the outlook for someone with acne?
Acne treatment often yields fruitful results. Many people can expect their acne to clear up within six to eight weeks of treatment. Flare-ups can still be expected and may require additional and long-term management. Isotretinoin is the treatment that is most likely to yield permanent and long-lasting results.
Since acne scars can cause additional stress and anxiety, proper medical treatment can help alleviate them. Your dermatologist will tailor your treatment options for your condition and will help prevent scarring.
How can acne be prevented?
Acne can be difficult to prevent; however, developing some healthy habits at home can help prevent acne after your treatment. For starters, washing your face twice a day with an oil-free cleanser is recommended. Other practices, like removing your makeup before sleeping, avoiding comedogenic makeup, and many more, are also advised.
How much is acne treatment in Korea?
Acne treatment in Korea is revolutionary and has evolved throughout the years. Many patients visit Korean dermatology clinics for acne treatment because of its effectiveness.
Korean dermatologists have practiced the art of acne treatment and introduced several therapeutic devices to aid them in treating patients. Price competition is what makes acne treatment in Korea cheaper compared to other countries.
Acne treatment costs may vary according to your condition and the methods used in treating your acne. One thing is for sure; the price is incredibly lower in Korea compared to the United States.
FAQs
Yes, they do! In most, if not all, acne treatments work, especially when done under the supervision of a dermatologist.
It usually depends on the type of treatment. Some people may experience a little irritation because of the treatment. However, it doesn't often hurt. Even acne treatment procedures don't hurt because an anesthetic is applied to the area where there is acne.
Conclusion
Acne can be a bothersome and troubling skin condition. It can cause emotional distress by affecting your confidence levels and self-esteem.
Nonetheless, treatment options are available on the table. Seeking help from a dermatologist is the best way to treat your acne. In some cases, acne only resolves with the supervision of a dermatologist.
Proper habits are essential for acne prevention. Doing so prevents succeeding flare-ups. Always keep a clean and moisturized face! By doing so, you’re already halfway done!
Visit Clinic Search Korea for more information.