Acne Vulgaris
Acne vulgaris is an inflammatory skin disease. It affects the sebaceous (oil) glands within the hairfollicles on the face, outer ear canal, back chest and groin. In severel cases, acne may spread as far as the legs. The conditon usuallystarts at puberty and peaks at 17-21.
Four out of fiveteenagers suffer from acne, which can be an embarrassing condition. One per cent of men and five percent of women in the UK have problems after the age of 40.
SYMPTOM
- Greasy skin.
- Spots and pimples on the face, shoulders, back or chest.
- In severe cases, inflamed cysts occur deep in the skin.
CAUSES
Acne is caused by increased activity of the skin's sebaceous glands under the influence of the sex hormones called androgens. Blockage of the duct leading from the sebaceous gland to the skin traps secretions inside to form blackheads. Increased numbers of bacteria on the skin also occur, and can become trapped inside the blocked ducts. Bacteria enzymes breakdown skin oil to trigger inflammation. Boys are more prone to acne than girls because they have higher androgen levels, but many girls also suffer, usually in the week before their menstrual period starts.
TREATMENT
Seek help early. Mild acne often responds well to over-the-counter preparation; more severe acne needs prescription drugs. With continuous treatment, nine out of ten people show a 50 per cent improvement within three months and an 80 per cent improvement within six months.
Complementary
Tea tree oil products are often effective.
COMPLICATION
Severe acne can leave scars; plastic surgery and other cosmetic treatments may helps.
