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Teen Skin Care
Acne is a skin condition found in over 85% of teenagers and young adults. /> Acne is caused in large part because of the hormonal changes taking place at puberty. Several hormones are associated with acne in both young men and women, including testosterone.
Oil from skin glands combines with dead skin cells to block hair follicles (even where you can’t see hair!). Oil continues to be produced, forming a plug and providing a place for bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes to grow. The infection that develops makes the skin swell and redden, forming a pimple. The face, chest, back, and upper arms are the most common places for acne to happen.
Types of Acne. There are three classes of acne. Mild: whiteheads and blackheads, no bacterial involvement; Moderate: pimples with pus. Bacteria and inflammation present; scarring develops. Severe: cystic nodules. Bacteria, inflammation, disfiguring scars; hyperpigmentation.
What can trigger/worsen acne?
There is a lot of controversy about this. Important factors include Family history, hormones, and (surprise) diet.
Hormonal activity, such as menstrual cycles and puberty. During puberty, an increase in male sex hormones called androgens cause the follicular glands to get larger and make more sebum.
Diet and Acne: Recent studies have shown an association between high sugar load foods (high glycemic index) that overload the blood with glucose. . High sugar also increases the level of testosterone in the blood (in both males and females), again contributing to the development of acne.
Poor Hygiene. Although acne is not caused by dirt, keeping your skin clean is important. Washing with an appropriate cleanser and using an exfoliating treatment is key in improving skin turnover.
PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). High levels of insulin and acne are also both features of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Girls with PCOS tend to have severe acne.
Genetics (thanks, Mom and Dad!). Often, acne will run in families. In these cases, there is often more severe acne.
Inflammation, skin irritation or scratching will trigger inflammation, setting up the scenario for acne.
Stress, through increased output of hormones from the adrenal (stress) glands.
Body-building steroids. Steroids have effects similar to testosterone.
Some medications (e.g.,lithium,, barbiturates, or androgens)
Illicit drugs. Amphetamines cocaine.
Acne Treatments
There are many effective therapies for acne. The best treatments include prescription and non-prescription medications and other treatments such as light treatments, peels, and lasers.
Generally speaking, successful treatments show little improvement within the first two weeks, instead taking a period of approximately three months to improve. Therefore, the key to improvement is patience and persistence. Most acne medications will treat one or two aspects of the acne, so often two or three products may be prescribed. However, all should be used exactly as instructed.
Topical medications such as Retin-A®, Clarity™, Tazorac® , Differin®, and others are very effective. These creams are all Vitamin A derivatives.
In young women, acne can be helped with hormone treatments such as the birth control pill.
Oral Medications. Low dose Spironolactone has anti-androgen properties, so it is especially useful in young women. Accutane® is a last resort
oral medication. Although brand Accutane is no longer manufactured, there are generic brands available.
Antibiotics. Once bacteria are complicating acne, adding an antibiotic for 8-12 weeks is useful. Antibiotics used in acne treatment include doxycycline, minocycline, and erythromycin. It is important that other treatments be used alongside the antibiotic.
Light therapy (Photodynamic Therapy). Photodynamic Therapies (LED Blue Light/Red Light) in combination with Levulan® activates chemicals
in P. acnes resultling in its destruction and significant reduction of inflammatory lesions. The process works well and there is no discomfort. Usually 6-8 (20 minute) sessions result in clearance that lasts 12 months.
Vitamins. Vitamins A, B complex, C, D, E, Folic acid, flavonoids, and beta carotene found in many
multi-vitamin supplements help the skin
Acne Scarring
Acne that is moderate or severe leads to severe scarring. There are several methods to treat acne scarring, depending on the severity.
Microdermabrasion. The top layer of the skin is taken away to make the scar look less deep. It makes the scar less visible but does not remove it completely. Many treatments may be needed.
Chemical peels. Different types of acidare put on the skin so that a smoother layer can form.
Subcision. A hole is made between the scar and the skin under the scar. Blood can pool under the scar, and raise it to the surface of the skin.
Laser. A laser is used to burn off the top layer of the skin and stimulate the dermis to make collagen, filling in the scar.Impact of Acne
Impact of Acne
The scarring that results from acne leads to reduced self-esteem and depression. This can be a lifetime consequence of untreated acne.
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