Acne

Acne commonly makes its first appearance during in adolescence, although adult-onset acne may occur during a person's 20s to 40s. It may also first occur in women during menopause, or for men or women taking certain medications (e.g., contraceptive pills, oestrogen, testosterone, phenytoin, steroids). In rare case, acne may occur in infancy.

The skin eruptions associated with acne commonly appear on the face, neck, chest, shoulders and back, although in more extreme cases it may also appear on the trunk, arms, legs and buttocks. Skin eruptions include blackheads, whiteheads, pustules and cysts, and the skin around these eruptions may appear inflamed, red, crusted or scarred.

Acne appears to be affected by genes, as it runs in families. A variety of internal and environmental influences may trigger an acne outbreak, including hormonal changes (e.g., related to pregnancy, stress or menstruation), oily/greasy cosmetic products, drugs, excessive sweating, or a humid climate. 

Although some people believe certain foods, such as chocolate and nuts, cause acne, no evidence exists to confirm this.

Signs, Symptoms & Diagnosis

Acne is caused when overactive oil glands clog the skin-pores, causing the pores to become blocked and to accumulate debris and bacteria. Such a blockage is called a "plug" (or "comedone") and its top may be white (a whitehead) or black (a blackhead). Once ruptured, the plug may cause inflammation in the surrounding skin area, and if the inflamed area is deep within the skin, a painful cyst may form.

Acne is fairly easy to diagnose, based on your skins appearance. In most cases, your doctor should be able to diagnose acne without further testing.

How to Treat Acne

A variety of topical and oral treatments exists for treating acne: Topical treatments include skin-cleansing liquids, gels and wipes; benzoyl peroxide agents; topical antibiotic liquids and creams; retinoid agents; resorcinol/sulphur-based agents (see Table I, below). Oral treatments are by prescription and include antibiotics; contraceptive pills; and isotretinoin (for severe cases).

People who have acne should:

- Regularly cleanse affected areas morning and night with an antiseptic wash or mild cleanser specially formulated for acne.

- Avoid using make-up or oil-based products on the skin.

- Use only water-based moisturizers.

- Remove all make-up at night.

- Use only beauty products labelled "non-comedogenic".

- Avoid touching your face with your fingers.

- Keep your hair clean with frequent washing.

- Keep your hair off your face, particularly the forehead, and avoid tight headbands or hats.

- Avoid the sun particularly if taking any oral medication for acne or, if exposed to sunlight, use a water-based sunscreen.

- Wear loosely fitting clothes, particularly if acne is on your body or chest.

- Eat well, exercise regularly and drink plenty of water to stay healthy.

Anti-acne Products from NetPharmacy  

Acnederm

Benzac

Blackmores

Brevoxyl

Cetaphil Skin Care Range

Clean and Clear

Crystacide Cream

Dalacin T

DermaNew Kit

T-Zone

See Your Doctor

If you have (or think you have) symptoms of acne, consult your doctor. In particular, large pimples or cyst-like lumps under the skin should be treated to prevent scarring.

Helpful Links

Medsafe New Zealand - Consumer Medicine Information

Everybody.co.nz

Questions & Answers About Acne (NIH)

Acne: An Overview (Drugs.com)