Acne: Causes, Prevention & Treatment - A Dermatologist's Complete Guide

Introduction

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions affecting nearly 85% of people at some point in their lives. At Khubsurat Duniya, we understand how frustrating acne can be, which is why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you understand and manage it effectively.

What is Acne?

Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with:

•           Excess sebum (oil)

•           Dead skin cells

•           Bacteria (P. acnes)

This leads to various types of lesions including:

•           Whiteheads (closed clogged pores)

•           Blackheads (open clogged pores)

•           Pimples (red, tender bumps)

•           Cysts (deep, painful pus-filled lumps)

What Causes Acne?

Understanding acne causes is crucial for effective treatment. The main factors include:

1. Hormonal Changes

•           Increased androgen levels during puberty

•           Menstrual cycles in women

•           Pregnancy

•           PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)

2. Excess Oil Production

•           Overactive sebaceous glands

•           Genetic predisposition to oily skin

3. Bacterial Growth

•           Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria

•           Bacterial overgrowth in clogged pores

4. Lifestyle Factors

•           High glycemic index diet

•           Dairy consumption

•           Stress and lack of sleep

•           Certain medications (steroids, lithium)

How to Prevent Acne?

Follow these dermatologist-approved prevention tips:

Daily Skincare Routine

1.          Cleanse twice daily with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser

2.          Exfoliate 2-3 times weekly with salicylic acid

3.          Moisturize with non-comedogenic products

4.          Use sunscreen daily (SPF 30+)

Lifestyle Modifications

•           Maintain a balanced diet low in sugar and dairy

•           Stay hydrated (8-10 glasses water daily)

•           Change pillowcases regularly

•           Avoid touching your face

•           Manage stress through meditation/exercise

Acne Treatment Options

1. Over-the-Counter Treatments

Ingredient	Benefits	Product Type
Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5-10%)	Kills bacteria, reduces inflammation	Washes, spot treatments
Salicylic Acid (0.5-2%)	Unclogs pores, exfoliates	Toners, serums
Glycolic Acid	Improves skin texture	Peels, creams
Niacinamide	Reduces redness, regulates oil	Serums, moisturizers

 

2. Prescription Treatments

•           Topical Retinoids (Tretinoin, Adapalene)

•           Antibiotics (Clindamycin, Erythromycin)

•           Oral Medications (Doxycycline, Isotretinoin)

•           Hormonal Therapy (Birth control pills, Spironolactone)

 

3. Professional Treatments

•           Chemical Peels (Glycolic, Salicylic acid)

•           Laser Therapy (Blue light, IPL)

•           Extraction Facials (Done by professionals)

•           Cortisone Injections (For cystic acne)

When to See a Dermatologist?

Consult a skin specialist if you experience:

•           Persistent acne despite OTC treatments

•           Painful cystic acne

•           Acne causing scarring

•           Emotional distress due to acne

Khubsurat Duniya's Acne Solutions

At Khubsurat Duniya, we offer:

•           Acne-fighting skincare kits

•           Dermatologist-formulated products

•           Personalized skincare consultations

•           Natural yet effective treatments