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Acne is a “polymorphic” disorder which exhibits a series of diverse lesions, comedones, pustules, papules, nodules, cysts, sinuses and scars. According to the American Research Journal of Pharmacy (ARJPM), acne is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects about 85 % of adolescents. It is estimated that the prevalence of the disease is about 1-12 % in the adult males and 12-17% in adult females. It is more frequent and severe in males, but more persistent in women.
In this blog, we’ll explore the underlying causes of acne, the different types of breakouts, and what triggers adult and hormonal acne. We’ll also cover the most effective acne spot treatment options, including sulfur, cystic acne treatments, laser therapy for acne marks, and how to choose the best spot acne treatment for your skin. Acne is as bewildering troublesome, and vexing a disease to the doctor as it is to the victim.
Acne lesions can generally be divided into two main categories in terms of redness and swelling: Non-Inflammatory and Inflammatory.
These lesions occur when pores are blocked by excess oil (sebum) and dead skin cells, but they are not caused by active bacteria swelling.
The underlying cause of inflammatory lesions is excessive growth of the bacteria that naturally occur on the skin (C. acnes), triggering an immune response.
If excess oil, dead skin cells and bacteria get stuck in the pore, it can cause blackheads, Whitehead, papules or pustules. Acne does not occur due to one cause in most cases. Instead, it is brought about by 2 or even more underlying factors at the same time.
There are 4 leading causes of acne:
Pores get clogged by excess natural oil production, thereby providing an environment for bacteria that cause acne to develop.
Due to dead skin cells that do not shed properly these cells tend to accumulate inside the hair follicles, clogging the pore.
Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) is a naturally occurring bacterium that grows in clogged pores, causing them to become inflamed and irritated.
The body’s immune system sends an anti-bacterial response resulting in redness, swelling, tenderness and production of pus.
Teenage acne usually fades with age, but adult acne has a different story. It may be first diagnosed at age 25 or later. Some of the most common causes include hormonal fluctuations, lifestyle choices, and medical issues; breakouts tend to occur around the chin, jawline and neck.
Adult acne is caused by the following factors:
Secondary Causes of Acne to Watch For:
Hormones and genetics play a major role in acne, while certain everyday habits and environmental factors can cause outbreaks to flare up. Understanding these triggers will help minimize the risks and keep skin healthier.
Acne mechanica: Friction from masks, helmets, or tight clothing can trigger breakouts.
Over-cleansing: Washing too often can strip natural oils and increase oil production.
Dirty pillowcases and phones: Oil and bacteria can transfer to the skin and clog pores.
Breakouts that keep appearing around the chin, jawline, and lower face are often linked to hormonal acne. High androgen levels can cause excess oil production, particularly in puberty or in the presence of conditions, such as PCOS. Acne is a common concern that occurs due to hormonal changes that happen just prior to menstruation, which typically occur 7-10 days before a period starts, or as a result of decreased estrogen levels during perimenopause or after using hormonal birth control.
The best spot treatment for hormonal acne depends on the severity of your breakouts. Effective and gentle on sensitive skin, Azelaic acid 10–15% is effective at reducing the redness, inflammation and post-acne marks. Benzoyl peroxide and adapalene work together to kill acne causing bacteria, unclog pores and prevent future acne spots. If the acne persists or occurs over a large area, a dermatologist may prescribe a medication like spironolactone or some birth control pills to treat the underlying hormonal imbalance.
Struggling with persistent acne or recurring breakouts? If over-the-counter treatments aren’t delivering the results you want, the dermatology team at Southdale Physicians can help identify the underlying cause and create a treatment plan tailored to your skin. Schedule your dermatology appointment today and take the first step toward healthier, clearer skin.
The right treatment depends on the type and severity of your acne. Here are some of the most effective options available:
An acne spot treatment is used directly onto the Pimples to get rid of redness, open pores and eliminate acne causing bacteria.
The best ingredient varies according to the nature of the breakout.
A sulfur acne spot treatment is meant to assist with the skin that is sensitive or acne prone. It is good for whiteheads and mild inflamed pimples and it doesn’t dry out the skin as much.
The acne develops and matures deep in the skin and results in large, irritating and painful bumps, which typically require more than over-the-counter remedies.
Although acne has faded away, it can leave behind dark spots or redness. For those who may find creams and serums insufficient, an acne dark spot laser treatment may prove a better solution to improve skin tone faster.
Finding the best spot acne treatment depends on matching the right ingredient to the exact type of blemish you’re facing:
Match your skin concern with recommended active ingredients and therapies.
Follow these core practices for optimal treatment results.
Almost everyone has experienced the frustration of waking up to a sudden, painful breakout before an important meeting or special event. The good news is that understanding the underlying cause of your acne is the first step toward finding a treatment that actually works. If your acne is persistent, painful, or leaving scars, the dermatology team at Southdale Physicians can provide personalized evaluations and treatment plans to help you achieve healthier, clearer skin with confidence.
