Acne Awareness Month

June is #AcneAwarenessMonth

Acne is a very common complaint amongst men and women ages 9-60+ and can present in a variety of ways. While there are many effective topical treatments available, as well as oral antibiotics, acne can be stubborn and persistent. Acne results in a variety of skin lesions including: blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, painful cysts, large open pores and oily skin. Acne can also cause scarring of the skin.

What is Acne?
Acne is a skin condition which is very common and affects more than 80% of the population at some stage in their life. Acne occurs when the pores under the skin become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. This then triggers an inflammatory response producing the papules (red bumps), pustules (pus filled lesions), cysts and nodules of moderate and severe acne.

This can also result in scarring when left untreated.
Many factors contribute to the development of acne. Genetics plays a large role with many patients having a family history of acne. Hormones called androgens in both males and females can cause an increase in sebum (oil) production which contributes to the development of acne.

There are many topical and oral treatments available for treating acne, with a very high success rate. Having a good home skincare routine is also important in preventing acne flares. There are many great ways of treating acne scarring following the successful treatment of acne.

We’ll be talking all about the management of acne and acne scarring over the next few weeks - so stay tuned!

If you’re concerned about Acne - contact us today on 01 912 3030/ info@instituteofdermatologists.ie we’re here to help!