WHAT IS ACNE?

Acne is inflammation of the sebaceous (oil) glands of the skin. At first these glands become blocked (blackheads and whiteheads) and then inflammation can lead to red bumps (papules), yellow heads (pustules), and even deep, tender cysts.

Acne is a common disorder of adolescence. It appears usually on the face, but can extend onto neck, chest and back.

WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF ACNE? 痤疮的原因是什么？

Acne is related to the increase in the levels of the male hormones during puberty in both sexes. Although the increase in hormone levels is normal, some people seem more sensitive to it.

Bacteria on the skin grow in the blocked gland and release fatty acids, which are irritating and set up inflammation.

WHO GETS ACNE/PIMPLES?

Most young men ages 13- 18 will get acne. It is worse in males ages 18- 19. It is slightly less common in girls; for them it is worse around 14 years and around period time.

WHEN WILL ACNE SETTLE DOWN?

It usually settles by the age of 20, but may continue longer in severe cases.

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT ACNE:

• It is usually not affected by diet
• It is not caused by oily hair or hair touching the forehead
• It is not infectious from one person to another
• Ordinary chemicals (including chlorine in swimming pools) do not make it worse
• Blackheads are not dirt, and will not dissolve in hot, soapy water
• It may flare up with excessive stress

A WORD TO PARENTS

Your son or daughter hates acne and finds it embarrassing. It is not due to the way skin is washed or what is eaten- it just happens.

It will not help if you are overanxious; give support and encouragement instead, especially following your doctor’s instructions. 

ACNE TREATMENT 痤疮治疗

This varies according to the severity and persistence of the problem and the person’s skin type.

DIET

Avoid any foods that may seem to aggravate your acne (such as chocolate or milk), but special diets are not advised. However, have a sensible, nutritious meal.

SOAP AND WASHING

Special soaps are unhelpful. Use a normal soap and wash gently and often- do not scrub.

COSMETICS

Avoid oily or creamy cosmetics and all moisturizers. Use cosmetics sparingly. Water- based lotion / cosmetics are preferred.

HAIR WASHING AND SHAMPOOS

These make no difference.

BLACKHEAD REMOVAL

This is not recommended; avoid picking and squeezing.

EXERCISE

This is not of proven value.

ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT

This can be very beneficial (includes sunlight and controlled artificial ultraviolet light). However, avoid extreme exposure to ultraviolet light. (This includes avoiding sunburn).

ACNE LOTIONS, CREAMS AND GELS

Many preparations are useful. These include sulphur, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and retinoic (tretinoin) lotions.

ANTIBIOTICS FOR PIMPLES

Those taken by mouth are of proven value, especially long-term tetracyclines. Topical antibiotic preparations are also effective.

THE PILL

Women who have acne and require oral contraception can benefit from some pill preparations. Ask your doctor or dermatologist.

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The information provided in this website is for knowledge purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice.

Should you encounter any medical problem that you are unsure of, always consult your doctor or health care provider for assistance and medical advice.

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