Discover when acne usually appears and how to treat it. Get tips on skin care routines and lifestyle changes to have lighter skin.

Acne is a common skin condition characterized by the presence of grains, pimples and white points. It mainly affects adolescents and young adults, but in some cases it can persist until adulthood. Many people wonder when acne will disappear and when they can expect a clearer skin. Although there is no definitive response, since acne can vary greatly from one person to another, there are some general guidelines that must be taken into account.

1. Factors that influence the duration of acne:

– Hormonal changes: During puberty, the increase in hormonal production can cause the hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands and the obstruction of the pores, giving rise to acne.

– Genetics: family history influence acne. If your parents had acne that persisted until adulthood, it is more likely that acne will last longer.

– Skin care routine: adequate skin care habits, which include soft cleaning and the use of no n-comedogenic products, can help control acne and potentially reduce its duration.

– Underlying diseases: some medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary (SOP) syndrome or hormonal imbalances, can contribute to prolonged acne.

It is important to note that acne usually improves with age. In many cases, acne begins to refer to the end of adolescence or at the beginning of twenty. However, some people may continue to suffer acne until thirty or even quarantine. Patience and constant skin care are crucial during this time.

2. Look for professional help:

If acne so persists or significantly affects its sel f-esteem, it is advisable to seek medical help. Dermatologists are specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of acne and can offer personalized recommendations to treat their specific problems. They can prescribe topical or oral medications, suggest modifications to lifestyle or recommend procedures such as chemical exfoliations or laser therapy to help reduce acne and prevent scars.

Although acne may be frustrating, remember that it is not alone and that there are numerous treatment options to help you control and improve this condition. Do not hesitate to contact a healthcare professional to guide him and support his fight against acne.

Understanding the causes of acne

1. Hormonal changes: One of the main causes of acne are hormonal fluctuations. During puberty, the body produces high levels of androgen hormones, such as testosterone, which stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more fat. This excess fat can obstruct pores and cause acne formation. Hormonal imbalances during pregnancy, menstruation and certain medical conditions can also trigger acne outbreaks.

2. Excessive sebum production: the sebaceous glands, located under the surface of the skin, produce an oily substance called Sebo. The sebum plays a vital role in the hydration of the skin and provides a protective barrier. However, when the sebaceous glands produce an excessive amount of tallow, it can be mixed with dead skin cells and bacteria, obstructing the hair follicles and giving rise to the formation of acne.

Reality: Acne is not caused by poor hygiene or dirty skin, but mainly influence internal factors such as hormonal levels and sebum production.

3. Bacterial infection: Another factor that contributes to acne is the presence of propionibacterium acnes, a type of bacteria that lives on the skin surface. When the hair follicles are clogged with fat and dead skin cells, this bacterium can multiply, causing inflammation and the appearance of grains.

Understanding the causes of acne is crucial to develop effective treatment strategies. When addressing hormonal imbalances, reducing sebum production and controlling bacterial growth, it is possible to minimize acne outbreaks and promote clearer and more healthy skin.

Common Misconceptions about Acne

1. Acne is caused by poor hygiene: This is one of the most widespread erroneous ideas about acne. Acne is not caused by dirt or surface impurities of the skin. Instead, it is mainly the result of hormonal changes that stimulate the production of excess fat in the sebaceous skin glands. This excess fat is combined with dead skin cells and obstructs pores, giving rise to acne formation. Although it is important to keep the skin clean, wash or rub it in excess it can aggravate the condition and strip the skin of its natural oils, worsening acne.

Contrary to popular belief, acne is not caused by poor hygiene, but by hormonal changes and an excess of fat production.

2. Acne is only a teenage problem: Although it is true that acne usually appears during puberty due to increased hormones, it is not limited to this age group. Acne can affect people of all ages, from teenagers to adults, and even infants. Adult acne is becoming more common, and the causes can range from hormonal imbalance to stress. It is important to understand that acne is not only linked to adolescence and can persist well into adulthood.

3. Popping pimples helps them heal faster: This is a misconception that can do more harm than good. Popping or picking at pimples can cause inflammation, cause bacteria to penetrate deeper into the skin, and even lead to scarring. It is essential to resist the temptation to squeeze or pop pimples, as it can prolong the healing process and increase the risk of infection. Instead, opt for gentle cleansing, topical treatments, and consult a dermatologist for effective acne treatment.

Acne in different age groups

1. Acne in adolescents: Adolescence is the most common time for acne to appear, affecting almost 80% of adolescents. During puberty, hormonal changes cause sebaceous glands to produce more oil, leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Teenage acne usually presents in the form of blackheads, whiteheads, papules and pustules, and mainly affects the face, chest and back. Although most cases of teenage acne resolve on their own over time, proper skin care and lifestyle modifications can help control and prevent serious acne breakouts.

Important information:

• Teenage acne is usually influenced by the hormonal changes of puberty.
• Proper skin care and lifestyle modifications can help control and prevent severe acne in teens.

2. Acne in adults: Contrary to common belief, acne can persist into adulthood, even in individuals who did not experience acne during puberty. Adult acne mainly affects women and is usually associated with hormonal fluctuations, stress and certain medications. It usually occurs in the form of deep, painful cysts and nodules, which usually affect the lower part of the face and jaw. Treatment of adult acne involves a combination of topical treatments, oral medications, and correction of underlying hormonal imbalances.

Important information:

• Acne can persist into adulthood, especially in women.
• Addressing hormonal imbalances and taking a comprehensive therapeutic approach is crucial to managing acne in adulthood.

3. Acne in older adults: although acne is less common in older adults, it can still appear due to various factors such as hormonal changes during menopause or the use of certain medications. Acne in older adults tends to be milder and can manifest itself as persistent black points and occasional outbreaks. Acne treatment in older adults requires a soft approach, focused on maintaining a good skin care routine and seeking medical advice to rule out any underlying medical condition or medication interactions.

Important information:

• Acne may appear in older people due to hormonal changes or the use of medicines.
• To treat acne in older adults it is essential to follow a soft skin care routine and consult the doctor.

Impact of Hormonal Changes on Acne

Acne mainly influences the activity of the Sebaceous glands, which produce sebum, an oily substance that contributes to the lubrication of the skin. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, in particular the increase in androgen levels, stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce an excess of tallow, which causes the obstruction of the pores. This, in turn, creates an ideal environment for the proliferation of bacteria, inflammation and the formation of acne injuries. However, it is important to note that hormonal changes continue to influence acne beyond adolescence, especially in women.

Hormonal Changes in Women

Menstrual cycle: The menstrual cycle is governed by a carefully orchestrated interaction of several hormones, such as estrogens, progesterone, follicl e-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Hormonal fluctuations during the different phases of the menstrual cycle can worsen or relieve acne symptoms in women. For example, the premenstrual phase, characterized by an increase in progesterone and a decrease in estrogen levels, usually causes acne worsening.

In addition to the menstrual cycle, hormonal changes in women can also be triggered by conditions such as polycystic ovary (SOP) syndrome and pregnancy. SOP is a hormonal disorder characterized by imbalances in androgen levels, which causes various symptoms, including acne. On the other hand, pregnancy induces hormonal changes to favor the development of the fetus, which can also affect the severity of acne in future mothers.

Treatment Approaches for Hormonal Acne

• Topical treatments: products that contain ingredients such as retinoids, benzyl peroxide and salicylic acid can help control acne reducing inflammation, uncovering pores and controlling sebum production.
• Oral contraceptives: For women with hormonal acne, oral contraceptives that contain estrogen and progestin can be beneficial to regulate hormonal levels and reduce sebum production.
• Antiandrogen medications: In cases where excessive levels of androgens are the main cause of acne, medications that reduce androgenic activity, such as spironolactone, can be prescribed.

It is essential to consult with a dermatologist or health professional to determine the most appropriate therapeutic approach for hormonal acne, taking into account individual circumstances and possible side effects.

Effective Treatments for Acne

1. Topical treatments: One of the most common forms of acne treatment is the use of topical medications. They apply directly to the skin and act by uncovering the pores, reducing fat production and eliminating bacteria that cause acne. Some of the most used topical treatments are

• Benzoil peroxide: This medicine reduces fat production and eliminates the bacteria from the skin surface.
• Retinoids: Retinoids help uncover pores and reduce inflammation.
• Topical antibiotics: topically applied antibiotics can help eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation.

Note: It is important to follow the instructions of your dermatologist or health professional when you use topical treatments. Excessive use or incorrect application can cause skin irritation and dryness.

2. Oral medications: In the most serious cases of acne, oral medications can be prescribed. These medications act from inside the body to control acne outbreaks. Some oral medications usually prescribed for acne are:

1. Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics can help reduce inflammation and eliminate bacteria that contribute to acne.
2. Isotretinoin: Isotretinoin is a powerful medication used for severe acne that does not respond well to other treatments.
3. Contraceptive pills: In the case of women, certain contraceptive pills can help regulate hormonal imbalances that contribute to acne.

Note: Oral medications for acne can have side effects and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is important to consult any questions or ask with the doctor.

Preventing Acne Breakouts

1. Cry your skin correctly: Cleaning plays a crucial role in the prevention of acne shoots. It is important to wash your face twice a day with a soft cleaner specifically formulated for the skin prone to acne. Avoid aggressive soaps or cleaners that can irritate the skin and cause more outbreaks. Use warm water and gently dry your face with a clean towel.

1. 2. Avoid washing in excess: although cleaning is essential, exceeding can strip the skin of its natural oils and alter its balance of hydration. This can trigger the most sebum production and worsen acne. Limited to washing your face twice a day, unless you recommend a dermatologist specifically.
2. 3. Keep your hands away from the face: our hands come into contact with numerous surfaces throughout the day, accumulating dirt, bacteria and other impurities. Touching your face with dirty hands can transfer these impurities to the skin, causing the obstruction of the pores and the appearance of outbreaks. Avoid touching your face unnecessarily and, if you should do it, always make sure you have clean hands.

Remember that acne outbreaks prevention is a continuous process that requires record and patience. It is essential to establish an effective skin care routine, pay attention to lifestyle related factors and consult a dermatologist if necessary. Taking proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the appearance of acne and get a healthier and clear skin.

Managing Acne Scars

One of the most effective methods to treat acne scars are dermatological procedures. These procedures are aimed at stimulating collagen production and promoting the cellular regeneration of the skin, ultimately reducing the appearance of scars. Some of the most used dermatological treatments for acne scars are:

• Laser therapy: This procedure uses laser technology to rejuvenate the skin, focusing on acne scars and reducing them. It acts by eliminating the upper leather layer and promoting the growth of new and healthier skin cells.
• Chemical exfoliations: By applying a chemical solution on the skin, chemical exfoliations help eliminate damaged external layers, exposing a smoother and more uniform tone.
• Microdermabrasion: This no n-invasive procedure consists in gently exfoliating the surface of the skin by microcrystals or a diamond tip, which improves the acne scars and the general texture of the skin.

It is important to note that the suitability of these procedures depends on the type of skin of the individual, the severity of acne scars and other factors. The consultation with a dermatologist is crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

In addition to dermatological procedures, there are also topical creams and treatments to treat acne scars. These products usually contain active ingredients such as retinoids, hyaluronic acid or silicone, which improve skin texture, reduce the visibility of scars and favor their healing.

Seeking professional help for persistent acne

When treating persistent acne, it is important to remember that each person’s skin is unique and that what works for a person does not have to work for another. A dermatologist is a medical professional specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of various skin conditions, including acne. When consulting a dermatologist, you can receive personalized treatment options and professional orientation to control acne.

Key points:

1. Acne, a frequent skin condition, can be persistent and not respond to free sale treatments.
2. It is recommended to go to a dermatologist to treat persistent or severe acne.
3. A dermatologist can provide personalized treatment options and guidance to control acne based on the specific needs of your skin.

During a dermatological consultation, the medical professional will evaluate the status of his skin, will take into account the underlying factors that may be contributing to their acne and formulate a custom treatment plan. This may include prescription medications, such as topical creams, oral antibiotics or even hormonal therapies, depending on the severity of acne. In addition to prescribing medications, the dermatologist can also recommend specific skin care routines, diet changes or other lifestyle modifications that can help improve acne.

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont