Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a skin problem that appears in cystic, raised pustules that are pus-filled pimples or red spots, also known as papules, blackheads and whiteheads. In the United States, 85-100% of all people experience some form of acne in their lives. This condition is more common in males during adolescence than females, but in adulthood women are more likely to experience this skin problem than adult males. The skin conditions related to acne are not limited to the adolescence years. 12% of female adults experience skin troubles and 5% of adult men have acne at age 25. In addition, 5% of adults have acne around age 45 as well. All skin types are known to experience acne vulgaris in similar ways. Acne can cause scarring and slight physical pain. More commonly, acne causes psychosocial pain and embarrassment through the teen years. The skin affected most commonly is the back, chest, neck and face, as these areas are the densest regions of sebaceous glands.

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Acne terminology

The symptoms of acne usually include both pain and tenderness. Acne vulgaris is characterized by comedones, papules, pustules and nodules in oil-producing follicles. A comedone is a whitehead or blackhead that appears on the skin usually without any signs of irritation. A papule or pustule is a raised bump with some inflammation. This skin problem is usually caused by over-production of oil on the skin's surface. The first stage of acne vulgaris is the comedonal acne without signs of inflamed lesions. The second stage is the appearance of comedones and papules with a slight inflammation. When many large lesions appear, this stage is called nodulocystic acne; at this stage scarring can occur. Male androgen hormones control sebaceous glands of the skin, and these glands control the production and amount of oil on the skin’s surface. The oil glands produce sebum through the hair follicular tubes. Propionibacterium is the bacterium that stays on the skin’s surface. Acne is formed when the cells and pores become blocked, causing an irritation. In most cases, acne vulgaris is caused by an internal problem usually related to hormones. Genetic factors can play a part in the development of this condition as well. Some cosmetics can irritate the skin and worsen the problem, as can some prescription or over-the-counter medications. It has been discovered that steroids, lithium and medications for reducing epileptic seizures can cause breakouts.

Dealing with acne vulgaris can seem at times difficult, but this condition can be controlled and managed. Following the advice of a health-care provider can help by offering suggestions of products or techniques to help find a solution to this skin irritation. As continued flare-ups may occur, developing a routine to keep the skin as clean as possible will aid in the possibility of clearer skin and help to make acne vulgaris manageable.