DEFINITION

Acne is a skin condition seen as blackheads, whiteheads, pustules and inflamed and infected nodules found on the face, neck, chest and back. People with Acne often feel self-conscious about the blemishes on their complexion.

DESCRIPTION

Acne is a skin condition which affects as many as 80% of teenagers. There are many different causes and factors which aggravate Acne, however, in most cases hormonal changes are largely responsible. Acne usually clears during the mid-twenties when hormonal levels have stabilised.
To best treat the condition, it is important to understand what effect Acne is having on the skin. Pimples, for example, often start as blackheads which progress into pustules. By keeping the skin clear of blackheads through regular skin cleansing, the incidence and severity of pimples may be reduced.

PIMPLES : When a hair follicle becomes clogged with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria, this debris is irritating to the skin and can cause inflammation. Pus is then created by white blood cells which rush to the site of inflammation to help fight off any infection. When the follicle becomes overloaded it usually bursts on the skin's surface and then heals quickly leaving no permanent scar. Follicles can break underneath the skin and these will take longer to heal.

BLIND PIMPLES : These are the type of lesions which can have flat or rounded surfaces. Blind pimples can cause pain but are usually not deep seated and scarring does not usually result. The pimple should not be squeezed even if pus does develop as it may be very painful and increases the risk of scarring.

BLACKHEADS : These appear on the skin as a result of dead skin cells and hardened sebum (natural oil and fluid released by glands) blocking the opening of a hair follicle. The blockage prevents the flow of sebum to the skin surface causing it to become slightly less oily. The blackheads, however, are often unsightly, and, if not treated, can become infected and progress into pimples.

CLOSED BLACKHEADS : Deeper down, in the underlying layers of the skin, closed blackheads occur. Closed blackheads are completely enclosed by the skin with no opening to the exterior or skin surface. Closed blackheads are barely visible and are difficult to remove. These blackheads usually develop into Acne. The skin has to be stretched between the fingers to see small white spots, the size of a pin head, which are called closed blackheads.

MILIA : This is a disorder of the oil producing glands which is caused by a build-up of dead skin cells and oily matter trapped beneath the skin. A milia looks like a small pearly grain of sand under the skin. The outer layer of skin grows over the hair follicle and does not allow the matter to escape.

CYSTS : When a hair follicle bursts deep under the skin, the irritating matter and dead cells seep into the surrounding areas and form cysts. The cysts appear as large, hard and painful lumps under the surface of the skin. The cyst will usually work its way to the surface which may take some time and can cause damage to skin tissue. This may result in scarring which is known as 'pitting'. Often a thickened membrane will form around the debris and medical treatment may be required.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

As with all conditions your Doctor should be consulted. Your Doctor will diagnose and treat this condition. Ask your Doctor about the latest advice on this ailment. Sometimes your Doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. If the case is severe there are other treatments available from your Doctor.

PHARMACIST'S ADVICE

Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
1) Follow the Diet Hints.
2) Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of fresh water a day. This helps prevent dehydration and constipation that can be associated with Acne. Water is thought to help with the cleansing of the body. Filtered water is preferable and a water filter jug is available from your Pharmacy.
3) Cleanse the skin thoroughly with a suitable antiseptic cleanser. A special Acne product containing Benzoyl Peroxide might be suggested to be applied after cleansing the skin. Ask your Pharmacist for advice. There are many brands available and come as a soap, liquid or a foam. Always pat the affected area dry rather than vigorously rubbing.
4) Include yoghurt or some acidophilus in the diet to help the bowels. Acidophilus can be useful in establishing a healthy internal flora and promoting the bowels to eliminate properly.
5) Watch for any food or environmental allergens which may be triggering the Acne.
6) Some cosmetic products may aggravate the condition, especially those that contain certain ingredients such as isopropyl myristate. Any compounds which are greasy should also be avoided.
7) If the diet is inadequate consider some supplements. The B Group Vitamins may be helpful for stress. Stress tends to deplete B vitamins and stress is often associated with Acne. Zinc is suggested because it is reputed to help the immune system. Vitamin A is useful for a number of skin conditions including Acne.

DIET HINTS

- Though not scientifically proven, diet may be a factor in Acne control. Acne may be the result of too many acid producing foods such as meat and sugar. Fruits (even citrus fruits) and vegetables help to alkalise the body. Improve the diet by reducing fats, oils and meats, eliminating sugar and chocolate and increasing the intake of whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
- Drink 6 to 10 glasses of water a day to help purify the cells and tissues in the body. Water helps the natural process of elimination of waste matter from the body.
- The diet should be rich in food sources of vitamin A, beta-carotene, zinc, fibre and fish oil. These nutrients may promote healing of the skin.
- Minimise inflammation in the body by taking essential fatty acids e.g., fish oil.
- Assist in eliminating waste products by promoting regular bowel function and eating plenty of soluble fibre e.g., fresh fruits, vegetables and garlic. Drinking plenty of clean, filtered water and raw vegetable juices may help to keep the bowels clean and regular.

VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS

Vitamins may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate.
- Vitamin A and zinc may help in the improvement of acne. Foods such as carrots and yellow vegetables (high in vitamin A) and pumpkin seeds (high in zinc) may be included in the diet.
- Vitamin B6 and folic acid may aid in acne related to menstrual dysfunction.
- An antioxidant or multivitamin may help if the diet is high in refined foods.
- Vitamin B2 supplementation may aid in acne rosacea.
- It is important to eliminate lymphatic congestion. Echinacea can be taken as a lymphatic herb or fresh lemon juice in water will also help clear lymphatic congestion.

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