Table of Contents
A normal pore contains sebaceous gland. Sebaceous glands produce a substance called sebum, which is responsible for keeping the skin and hair moisturized.
Stage 1: Comedone
First stage of Acne is called comedone, also known as whitehead and blackhead. As the sebum build up, they become compacted and thick. If the opening of the pore is narrow or closed, this becomes a whitehead. If the opening of the pore is stays open, it is a blackhead.
Solution at this stage:
- Low potency tretinoin products – such as topical Retinyl Palmitate to allow dead skin cells turnover and sebum to slough normally
- BHA ( salicylic acid 2% ) – dissolve keratin clogged pores and regulate skin cells
- Resorcinol – helps break down blackheads and whiteheads
- Chemical Peel – to exfoliate and removes dead skin, oil, and debris
Stage 2: Pimple
Since the sebaceous material contains a lot of P. acnes bacteria, the surrounding skin can get infected and form what we usually call a typical pimple/papule).
Solution at this stage:
- Over the counter Benzoyl peroxide – kills bacteria and helps prevent P. acnes from overgrowing.
- Azelaic acid– strengthens cells that line the follicles, reduces sebum and control bacterial growth
- Topical antibiotics – for infected papules or to prevent progression into a pustule
- Laser therapy – Lasers like ProYellow laser emits wavelengths light that destroys P. Acne bacteria by targeting the by product named porphyrins. Post acne redness also also be treated and reduced.
Stage 3: Cystic Pustule
At times when the sebaceous material and bacteria leak into the surrounding skin, the infection spreads wider and deeper, causing scarring and the formation of Cystic Pustule
Solution at this stage:
- Intralesional Corticosteroid Injection. If an acne cyst becomes severely inflamed, it may rupture and lead to scarring. Diluted corticosteroid can be injected to reduce inflammation, prevent scarring and speed up healing.
- Oral antibiotics – Antibiotics can combat the growth of bacteria P. Acnes and reduce inflammation.
- Vitamin A Derivative – Oral Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) and topical Adapalene may be prescribed to treat moderate to severe cystic acne. Oral Roaccutane is a strong, oral retinoid, used for the treatment of severe acne and cystic acne that has not responded to other medications and treatments. Usage of this medication needs to be prescribed by certified doctor and monitored closely during consumption.
It is advisable to start with the lowest strengths, as some preparations can cause skin irritation, redness, or burning on first use.
The other common causes of Acne
- Hormonal Imbalance – especially when you get acne along the jawline and chin around your monthly cycle.
- High Glycemic Diet – causes blood sugar and insulin levels to spike. That results in inflammation throughout the body, including the skin.
- Miuse of cosmetic/skincare product – some types of makeup or skincare are heavy and oil-based and may lead to clogging of the skin pores causing acne
- Popping pimples – This could likely spread the bacteria and pus from the infected pore to surrounding pores in the area. It may also worsen inflammation and cause scarring.
