Acne is a prevalent skin problem that affects the majority of people at some point in their lives. It results in blemishes, oily skin, and occasionally hot or uncomfortable skin to the touch. Older people's skin shows this issue more visibly since they can generate less collagen. Thanks to advancements in medical technology, treatments for acne removal have been developed using cutting-edge methods. Dermatologists frequently suggest chemical peels, light skin treatments, and laser procedures to remove the scars.

In order to provide the essential information, Dr. Priyanka Reddy, the founder of DNA Skin Clinic and the leading Skin Doctor in Bangalore, has addressed the various types of acne, their symptoms, and their treatments.

Types of Spots

There are six primary categories of spots connected to acne::

1. Blackheads: little black or yellowish bumps that develop on the skin. They are not filled with dirt; instead, they are dark in colour because the inner lining of the hair follicle produces pigment.

2. Whiteheads - resemble blackheads in appearance but may be more challenging and resist emptying when squeezed.

3. Papules are tiny red lumps that might hurt or feel tender when touched.

4. Pustules: these resemble papules but differ in having a white point in the middle.

5. Nodules are large hard lumps that form beneath the skin's surface and can be painful.

6. Cysts: which are the most severe type of acne-related spot and are large pus-filled lumps that resemble boils and are most likely to leave permanent scars are the most severe type of acne-related spot.

The Signs of Acne

Acne typically affects the shoulders and face. Additionally, the buttocks, arms, legs, and trunk may be affected. Skin alterations consist of:

1. Bumpy skin rubbing

2. Cysts

3. Papules (little red bumps)

4. Pustules (white or yellow pus found in tiny red bumps)

5. Eruptions on the skin that are red

6. Cutaneous scarring

7. Whiteheads

8. Blackheads

What Remedies are There for Acne?

The following self-help methods could be beneficial:

1. Avoid washing the affected skin more than twice each day. Regular washing could make symptoms worse by irritating the skin.

2. Wash the afflicted area with lukewarm water and a mild soap or cleaner. Excessively hot or cold water may make acne worse. 

3. Try not to squeeze or "clean out" blackheads or spots. This may worsen them and leave behind scars that are permanent.

4. Do not overuse cosmetics and makeup. Make use of non-comedogenic water-based products (this means the product is less likely to block the pores in the skin)

5. Remove all makeup before going to bed.

6. Use a fragrance-free, water-based emollient if dry skin is an issue.

7. While regular exercise won't help the acne, it will make one happier and more confident. After working out, shower as soon as possible because sweat might aggravate acne.

8. Avoid having the hair fall across the face by frequently washing hair.

9. Although acne cannot be cured, the correct medicine can help one control it. Asking the pharmacist for guidance if one gets acne is a brilliant idea. For treating spots, pharmacies have a range of creams, lotions, and gels.

Don't expect results right away; treatments can take up to three months to take effect. When they do begin to work, the outcomes are frequently favourable.

What Causes Acne?

1. Although it can start at any age, the changes in hormone levels that occur during puberty are most usually linked to acne.

2. The skin's oil glands adjacent to hair follicles release more oil (abnormal sebum) when certain hormones are present.

3. In reaction to this abnormal sebum, the generally benign skin bacteria P. acnes alters its behaviour, becoming more aggressive and causing pus and inflammation. 

4. Additionally, the hormones thicken the inner lining of the hair follicle, resulting in pore obstruction (opening of the hair follicles). The skin cannot be cleaned to remove this obstruction.

5. A family history of acne is well known. It is likely that one will have acne if both parents do.

6. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, might cause women to develop acne flare-ups.

Doctor’s Note 

Most acne cases are not severe, and a pharmacist can treat them. If it is severe or occurs on the chest and back, treating the acne with antibiotics or stronger lotions/creams may be necessary. These are only accessible with a prescription. If one needs to see the doctor for additional treatment, the pharmacist can provide advice on that.

To prevent scarring, any nodules or cysts one acquires must be carefully treated by an expert skin doctor. Avoid the urge to pluck or crush the spots because doing so might leave scars that are permanent.

One can schedule a consultation at DNA Skin Clinic to receive the best Acne treatment in Bangalore. Depending on the patient's skin type and the severity of their acne, Dr. Priyanka Reddy offers a variety of acne treatments. Antibiotics, a teenage peel, a carbon laser peel, and other treatments are available. Visit the clinic to find out more.