Acne (blackheads, acne, pimples)– an inflammatory process that occurs in the hair follicle and sebaceous gland. This is the most common skin lesion. Everyone felt its manifestations to varying degrees. This problem is especially relevant for young people, since as they grow older, the risk of acne increases significantly.
Skin anatomy
The skin is the largest organ of our body, the area of which reaches 1.5-2 m². Its function is to protect the human body from external adverse factors. In addition, the skin performs a number of other important tasks:- body thermoregulation
- removal of harmful substances
- breath
- production of sweat and sebum
- accumulation of energy reserves (in the form of subcutaneous fat)
- perception of stimuli (touch, temperature, pressure)
- Epidermis or superficial layer– represented by flat stratified epithelium. This part of the skin has five layers. Gradually, cells from the lower layer rise to the surface. This journey takes them about a month. There is less water in the cells and metabolism stops. Therefore, the top layer becomes keratinized and becomes “dead.” Its cells gradually exfoliate. In this way, old skin cells are gradually replaced with new ones.
- The skin itself (dermis) or deep layer. It consists of fibrous connective tissue.
The dermis is also divided into two layers.
- Upper – papillary, more dense. It is saturated with blood capillaries, nerve fibers and has the appearance of papillae, which are pressed into the epidermis, forming thin grooves. The openings of the sebaceous and sweat glands are also located here. The secretion of which moistens the skin.
- Reticulate The layer contains sebaceous and sweat glands, as well as hair follicles. Elastic fibers are woven into it, which are responsible for the elasticity of the skin. There are also unstriated muscle fibers here, which raise the hair and cause goose bumps.
- Subcutaneous fat (hypodermis) makes up the bottom layer. It has a looser structure and contains a large amount of connective tissue and accumulations of fat cells. Its function is to protect against temperature changes, absorb shock and store nutrients.
Causes of acne
What can cause acne?
- Disturbances in the hormonal system.
Hormones regulate the activity of the entire body, including the skin. The appearance of acne is influenced by:
- Testosterone – refers to the male sex hormones androgens, which are synthesized in the gonads of both men and women. Increased testosterone production makes the sebaceous glands work more intensely. Sebum accumulates in the glands. This creates favorable conditions for the development of bacteria. In women, the predominance of testosterone can cause excess hair growth, acne is common, and the skin becomes thick and rough. There are cases when the androgen content does not exceed the norm, and changes in the body are caused by increased sensitivity to testosterone. The predominance of testosterone in women may be associated with ovarian dysfunction, polycystic ovary syndrome.
- Progesterone – refers to female sex hormones, gestagens. Produced in both sexes by the ovaries, testes and adrenal glands. It begins to act on the female body in the second half of the menstrual cycle. It is with this that the deterioration of the skin condition before the onset of menstruation is associated. This hormone makes it easily stretchable, swollen, increases the production of sebum, and promotes the retention of fats in the skin.
- Imbalance of the autonomic nervous system.
Normally, in humans, the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system are in balance. They regulate the functioning of all organs of the human body. One of them temporarily prevails over the other depending on the situation and environmental conditions. Disturbances in this balance and intensive work of one of the departments lead to an increase in the tone of the vagal innervation of the sebaceous glands, as well as hyperproduction of sebum. The cause of dysfunction of the nervous system can be: stress, lack of sleep, fatigue, increased physical activity, endocrine changes in the body (for example, after childbirth).
- Overactivity of the sebaceous glands.
Normally, the secretion of the sebaceous glands (sebum) has bactericidal properties. It protects the skin from drying out, premature aging, UV radiation, frostbite and is an antioxidant. However, if the sebaceous glands are overly active, then sebum does not have time to be distributed over the surface of the skin, but accumulates in the sebaceous gland. In this case, conditions for the growth of bacteria become favorable. As a result, those microorganisms that lived on the skin and did not harm it begin to actively multiply. Their activity causes acne.
- Changes in the composition of sebum.
With increased sebum production, its composition changes. The concentration of linoleic acid decreases. This causes the pH level to become disturbed and the skin reaction to become more alkaline. As a result, the permeability of water into the mouths of the follicles increases. This creates conditions for the growth of microorganisms. In addition, sebum becomes thicker. This prevents it from being brought to the surface. As a result, comedones are formed.
- Stress and mental stress.
They significantly undermine the body's defenses. Severe nervous shocks can undermine the immune system and hormonal balance, cause an imbalance in the nervous system, and as a result of these disorders, acne appears.
- Decline of local immunity and activation of opportunistic microorganisms.
Local skin immunity is provided by the immune cell system. The most important of them are Langerhans cells. They activate the local immune response and control the activity of specific cells (epidermal macrophages, epithelial cells). The skin's defenses are adversely affected by:
- uncontrolled use of cosmetics
- excessive UV exposure
- stress
- bad habits
- poor nutrition
- Hereditary predisposition.
If parents have had acne, then there is a high chance that their children will also suffer from this problem. A person's skin type is determined genetically. The following traits are inherited from parents:
- increased testosterone levels
- Features of local skin immunity
- level of sensitivity of the sebaceous glands to the effects of sex hormones
- disruption of the functioning of the upper layers of the epithelium (not removed in time, thickens)
- tendency to form defective sebaceous glands
- production of sebum with altered properties (irritating to the skin, too thick)
- Dietary disorders.
Flour and confectionery products contain many simple carbohydrates. Their entry into the body leads to the production of large amounts of insulin and insulin-like growth factor. In this regard, the level of male sex hormone increases, which causes increased production of sebum. As a result, favorable conditions are created for the life of bacteria.
The abundance of fats in the diet leads to the fact that they enter the blood in large quantities and are subsequently excreted through the skin. The sebaceous glands cannot cope with sebum removal. It accumulates and is colonized by bacteria.
- Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, endocrine glands, genital organs.
Acne is often a symptom of internal diseases. For example, diseases of the digestive system lead to the fact that food is not fully absorbed and stagnates. At the same time, a large amount of toxins is formed in the gastrointestinal tract. They are absorbed into the blood. And since the skin also performs an excretory function, toxins released through the skin cause acne.
Acne can be a symptom of the following conditions and diseases:
- irritable bowel syndrome
- acute and chronic gastritis
- stones in the bile ducts
Diseases of the genital organs are closely related to the occurrence of acne. They can be caused by: polycystic ovary syndrome, ovarian sclerocystosis, previous infections and gynecological operations, abortion. This disrupts the production of female sex hormones and, as a result, rashes on the face.
Diseases of the endocrine glands , which are responsible for hormonal balance, can also cause acne. These may be: diseases of the pituitary gland (hypopituitarism, prolactinoma), adrenal glands (Andosteroma tumor, causing excessive secretion of male sex hormones).
Availability focus of chronic infection in the body, such as carious teeth, sinusitis, also worsens the condition of the skin. Microorganisms are carried through the bloodstream and penetrate various organs and tissues, causing areas of inflammation. Also, with these diseases, general and local immunity decreases.
- Taking certain medications.
Acne often appears during or after treatment with various medications. Such acne is called medicinal acne:
- Hormonal contraceptives: Ovral, Norlestrin, Lestrin, Norinil - can disrupt the natural production of female hormones estrogen.
- Antiepileptic drugs: Phenytoin, Trimethadione - cause skin irritation when excreted through the skin.
- Anti-tuberculosis drugs: Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Ethambutol - disrupt vitamin metabolism and liver function.
- Antidepressants: Amineptine, Methohexital, Surital, Pentotal - can cause hormonal imbalance and allergies.
- Steroid hormones: local corticosteroids, systemic corticosteroids, anabolic steroids, gestagens - affect the production of insulin and testosterone, as a result of which large amounts of glycerol and fatty acids accumulate in the sebaceous glands.
- Antibiotics: Unidox, Solutab, Tetracycline, Doxycycline - can cause an allergic reaction and dysbacteriosis.
- VitaminsB 1, B 2, B 6, B 12, D 2– the rash may be a manifestation of hypervitaminosis and allergies.
- Using inappropriate cosmetics.
Cream, powder, lotion, blush and eye shadow - these types of cosmetics can worsen the condition of the skin. Therefore, masking acne causes an increase in the number of breakouts. Viscous products that contain oils and glycerin are considered especially dangerous. Comedogenic cosmetics are those that clog pores, provoke the appearance of comedones, and create a microfilm on the surface of the skin that prevents breathing. Any of the components can cause acne if it is not accepted by the body and irritates the skin. Therefore, even a water-based product can be comedogenic.
- Incorrect cosmetic care.
Both poor personal hygiene and excessive cleaning can cause acne. This is due to the fact that the natural protection and acid-base balance of the skin are disrupted.
- Lack of vitamins A and E.
a lack of vitamin A (retinol ) leads to hyperkeratosis (enlargement and thickening of the upper layer of the epidermis). Also, its deficiency manifests itself in peeling of the skin, its premature aging, interruptions in the functioning of the sebaceous glands, the appearance of acne, stretch marks and acne scars. Retinol ensures the normal functioning of the skin and immune system, increases resistance to microorganisms and accelerates the restoration of epithelial cells. In addition, this vitamin is involved in the production of female sex hormones, which are responsible for clean skin.
Effective skin protection is ensured by the interaction of vitamins A and E ( tocopherol ). The latter restores damaged cell membranes, neutralizes free radicals that destroy cells and lead to aging. Also vitamin E has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the genital organs and their production of hormones. - Minor skin injuries.
If the skin is prone to acne, then even microtraumas can worsen its condition. Therefore, it is not recommended to touch your face with your hands again; you should avoid rubbing your skin on clothes or a telephone receiver. Trying to squeeze out a pimple yourself also leads to the infection spreading to nearby areas of the skin. Most often, this process occurs in the direction from the nose to the ear. It is especially not recommended to squeeze out pimples in the area of the nasolabial triangle.
What does acne look like?
Acne (blackheads) is an inflammation of the sebaceous glands. They look like red pimples. These inflammatory nodules are often painful and cause a lot of discomfort to the person. Gradually, a purulent island forms in the center of the inflammation. Most often, acne occurs in those areas of the skin where there are more sebaceous glands. These are the face, neck, chest and back. A person suffering from acne usually has manifestations of oily seborrhea. The skin becomes shiny, porous and thick, with a large number of comedones and inflammatory elements.
Why does acne occur?
Inflammation of the sebaceous glands, commonly known as acne, is the body’s signal of intoxication. Poisoning can be caused by various triggers: poor diet, taking medications and vitamins, alcohol, weight loss. Absorbed through the intestinal walls, toxic metabolites enter the bloodstream, which negatively affects the condition of the skin. Taking enterosorbent Enterosgel will help eliminate poisoning and improve the appearance of the skin. Thanks to the structure of the hydrophobic sponge, the product glides along the walls of the gastrointestinal tract without sticking or lingering on the mucous membranes, as do powder sorbents, the formula of which consists of tiny crystals. The gel sorbent is advantageous in that it absorbs predominantly harmful substances that cause skin inflammation, without removing vitamins, protein, and beneficial bacteria. A course of Enterosgel will help cleanse the body of toxins and restore the skin to a healthy appearance.
The sebaceous gland becomes inflamed after the duct that removes sebum becomes blocked. This occurs as a result of the fact that the keratinized scales of the epidermis and the secretion of the gland have blocked the opening of the pilosebaceous duct. A plug is formed - a comedone. At the same time, sebum accumulates in the gland, and favorable conditions are created for the growth of bacteria. The body attacks pathogenic microorganisms with white blood cells. As a result, pus forms in place of accumulated sebum. It is a turbid, white-yellow liquid consisting of microorganisms, living and dead leukocytes, fat and various enzymes.
Often after an element of acne disappears, a dark spot, scar or scar forms in its place. Therefore, it is so important to take measures to prevent the appearance of acne and treat them correctly. And although this process can take quite a long time, it is necessary to complete the treatment until the rash disappears completely.
What are the different forms of acne?
All elements of acne can be divided into two forms:- Inflammatory form. These include elements that are prone to inflammation and suppuration:
- ordinary– the most common juvenile acne. They usually go away on their own by age 18;
- acne conglobata– large spherical elements. They are prone to the formation of cysts and cavities with pus;
- lightning fast– appear quickly and fester strongly. In their place, a wound resembling an ulcer often forms. In this case, the state of health deteriorates significantly, intoxication of the body begins, and the temperature rises. More common in male adolescents 13-17 years old;
- mechanical acne– arise as a result of mechanical effects on the skin. They often occur in places where clothing squeezes or rubs the skin.
- Non-inflammatory form - comedones (blackheads), blockage of the mouth of the follicle with desquamated epithelium and thickened sebum.
Classification by age
Baby acne. Separately, acne of newborns is distinguished. It occurs in infants due to maternal sex hormones entering the blood. Pimples have the appearance of closed comedones. If hygiene rules are observed, these elements disappear on their own after a few weeks. They do not fester and do not leave marks on the child’s skin.Teenage and young adult acne. It is observed in 90% of adolescents 12-16 years old. The rashes are papules and pustules with purulent contents.
Acne in adults (late acne)
The onset of acne in adulthood is uncommon. The appearance of a large amount of acne after 30 years of age may indicate a serious illness. Therefore, unlike adolescents, adults need a thorough medical examination. You may need to consult a dermatovenerologist, endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, gynecologist (urologist).
Acne in adults can be associated with taking medications, hormonal drugs and vitamin cocktails, or a malfunction of the adrenal glands.
What are the grades of acne?
To determine the severity of acne, you need to divide your face with an imaginary line from the crown to the chin. Then they count the foci of inflammation (both pronounced and those where inflammation is just beginning). The choice of treatment depends on the severity. Therefore, it is better not to ignore this stage. Acne severity rating:
1st degree (mild) – less than 10
2nd degree (average) – 10-20
3rd degree (severe) – 21-30
4th degree (very severe) – more than 30
Treatment of acne
Acne treatment– a long process that includes many procedures. The best place to start is by consulting a dermatologist. The choice of methods largely depends on the causes of acne. Treatment of concomitant chronic diseases that cause acne may also be required.The main stages of acne treatment are aimed at:
- prevent the formation of comedones
- clear clogged ducts
- stop bacteria from multiplying
- reduce sebum secretion
- cure skin inflammation
How to treat acne at home?
With proper care and proper selection of products, you can cope with acne on your own. This is especially true for juvenile acne, the appearance of which is not associated with serious diseases. Before you start treating acne at home, you need to cleanse your face. For oily skin, gels and foam cleansers with antibacterial components are well suited. They increase local immunity and normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Their pH should not exceed 4.5. You need to wash your face with these products at least twice a day. You should not use regular toilet soap for washing. It dries the skin too much. After such cleansing, she tries to compensate for the lack of hydration, and the sebaceous glands produce secretions in an enhanced manner.
Hot water is not the best option for oily skin. It is best to wash your face with water at room temperature. It invigorates the skin, improves its tone and tightens enlarged pores.
A necessary procedure is peeling. This procedure is aimed at exfoliating the upper keratinized layer of the epithelium. To do this, you can use ready-made scrubs and peeling products. They must be used at least twice a week. For those who prefer cosmetics based on natural ingredients, we can offer several recipes:
- Mix baking soda, finely ground salt and shaving foam or shower gel in equal proportions.
- Take equal parts of ground coffee and fine sea salt.
- Grind dry rye bread in a coffee grinder and add a tablespoon of kefir.
- Dissolve a few aspirin tablets in a small amount of water.
- Take 2 tablespoons of green clay and 3 tablespoons of sour milk.
The skin must be prepared before cleansing. After washing with detergents, the face is steamed over a pan of hot water. Apply any scrub composition to damp skin. Distribute the mixture evenly over the face and gently massage in circular movements. After this, you need to rinse your face with cool water and apply a healing cream to it. Bepanten or Pantestin are perfect for these purposes. It is advisable to carry out this procedure at night. The fact is that this method of cleaning injures the upper layers of the skin.
Therefore, after scrub and peeling, redness occurs. The skin needs to be given several hours to recover, and only after that apply cosmetics. The systematic use of such products ensures deep cleansing of pores, removal of comedones and elimination of bacteria. The skin is evened out, pores, small scars and acne spots become less noticeable.
Treating acne with natural remedies has been practiced for centuries. Traditional medicine has accumulated a lot of experience and helps to effectively get rid of acne. We offer you recipes for the most effective masks that you can prepare at home. Systematic use of these products perfectly cleanses the skin and soothes inflammation. In addition, natural components practically do not cause allergic reactions.
| How to prepare a mask | What effect do the components of the mask have? | How to smear and what to smear | What should be the result after application and how many sessions will it take to wait for the effect? |
| Brewer's yeast (1 tbsp) add 1 tbsp. l. milk, mix until the consistency of thick sour cream | Vitamins B and H, iron, phosphorus, zinc, chromium, potassium, selenium and magnesium saturate the skin with beneficial substances and improve blood circulation | Apply a thin layer to cleansed facial skin | Makes the skin smooth, soothes inflammation. If you replace milk with water and lemon juice, your skin will whiten and be cleared of bacteria. |
| Grate the apple on a fine grater, add 1 tbsp. l. yogurt, and 1 tsp. honey | Cleanses and smoothes the skin, improves cell nutrition | Mix the resulting pulp thoroughly and apply to clean, dry skin. After 20 minutes, rinse with cool water | The acids contained in apple juice prevent the proliferation of microorganisms that cause acne. The skin becomes smooth and elastic after the first session |
| Mix alcohol tincture of calendula (1 tbsp) with the same amount of flour. Add some water | Calendula disinfects the skin, kills bacteria that cause inflammation of comedones | Mix all ingredients until the consistency of thick sour cream. Apply the resulting mask to your face. Leave for 10 minutes and rinse with cool water | After removing the mask, the skin will become soft and pink. Existing acne will shrink somewhat and become less noticeable. This procedure must be repeated 3 times a week. |
| Beat the egg white, add 1 tsp. lemon juice and 1 tbsp. l. strawberries | Reduces skin oiliness, tightens pores, relieves inflammation | Apply the resulting mixture to prepared skin for 20 minutes. After this, rinse with cool water. | Apply regularly 2-3 times a week. After 10 days, the skin condition will noticeably improve. There will be fewer rashes. Freckles and age spots after acne will whiten |
| Grate half the pear, add 2 tsp. lemon juice | Tightens pores, eliminates oily shine, helps remove dead epithelium | Apply the resulting paste to your face for 10-15 minutes. Then remove with circular movements and wash with cool water. | Do it in 2 days. The skin becomes fresher and softer. The gland ducts are cleared of sebaceous plugs. Inflammation occurs noticeably less frequently. The effect is noticeable after 3-5 times |
| Mix the pulp of white or pink grapes (2 tsp) with whipped chicken protein | Fruit acids cleanse the skin of dead cells, making it velvety and elastic | Grind until smooth and apply to face. Leave for 15 minutes. and rinse with cold water | The skin becomes cleaner, the pores are cleared and less noticeable. For a lasting effect, you need to make masks for a month |
| Crush ripe viburnum berries and squeeze out the juice | Plant antibiotics and phytoncides kill bacteria. Microelements nourish the skin and normalize the activity of the sebaceous glands | Soak a gauze napkin in viburnum juice and place on cleansed facial skin. Leave for 30 minutes. Wash with warm water. Apply nourishing cream to the skin | The high effectiveness of this mask is explained by the rich composition of viburnum juice. It has a comprehensive therapeutic effect, relieves inflammation of acne, reduces redness and whitens post-acne spots |
| Grate one medium carrot on a fine grater. Add a few drops of lemon juice and vegetable oil | Contains large amounts of vitamin C and provitamin A | Thoroughly clean and dry the skin. Apply the resulting mixture in a thin layer over the entire face. Cover with a napkin on top. Leave for 10-15 minutes. then rinse with warm water without soap | Helps restore skin balance and normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Moisturizes and nourishes the skin. Do it 2 times a week. Improvement is noticeable after 4-5 procedures |
| Baking soda 4 tbsp. l. and a small amount of water | Baking soda dissolves sebaceous plugs, normalizes pH, cleanses pores and removes dead cells | Mix baking soda and a small amount of water until you get a paste. You can add 1 tsp. wheat flour. Leave for 10 minutes. and wash off | The result is noticeable the first time. The skin is cleared of comedones, becomes smooth, and the color is evened out. Do it regularly 1-2 times a week until the desired result is achieved. Then 2-3 times a month to prevent recurrent rashes |
| Aspirin tablets, liquid honey, olive oil or moisturizer | Acetylsalicylic acid dries out inflammatory elements and completely eliminates minor inflammations. Prevents the spread of infection | Crush 2-4 aspirin tablets. Add a few drops of water to make a paste. Mix with other ingredients. Apply to prepared skin and let the mask dry | Skin balance is restored, acne spots and oily shine disappear. Use once a week for 2-3 months |
| Green clay 1 tbsp. l., honey 1 tsp, water 2 tbsp. l. | It has a rich composition, has an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect on the skin | Mix all ingredients until smooth. Apply the mask to your face and leave until dry. Rinse with warm water | Repeat the procedure no more than 2 times a week. The result is obvious after the first procedure. Peeling is eliminated, inflammation disappears, pores are cleaned and narrowed, the process of cell regeneration is accelerated, and oily shine disappears. |
| Cucumber 3 tbsp. l., alcohol tincture of calendula 1 tbsp. l, honey 1 tsp. | Relieves inflammation, tones, tightens pores, evens out complexion | Peel the cucumber and turn it into a paste using a blender or fine grater. Add the remaining ingredients to the pulp and apply to the prepared face. Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off | An immediate effect of refreshing and reducing inflammation is guaranteed. The mask must be repeated every other day until the acne disappears completely. |
| White clay 1 tbsp, sour milk 1 tsp, egg white | Reduces skin oiliness, cleanses pores, removes keratinized epithelium, evens out complexion | Mix all ingredients to obtain a homogeneous mass. Apply the paste to your face and let it harden. Then rinse thoroughly with warm water | After the first procedure, the skin looks noticeably better: inflammation decreases, skin structure improves. The mask must be applied at least twice a week for three months. And then once a week |
| Aloe leaves | The substances contained in this plant have a powerful anti-inflammatory and healing effect, and also intensively rejuvenate the skin. | Chop 2-3 aloe leaves and add a glass of cold water. After an hour, boil the infusion for 2 minutes and strain. After cooling, apply the aloe pulp to your face for 20 minutes. | Make the mask 2 times a week for 2 months. If necessary, you can repeat the course of cosmetic procedures after a month. |
| Ripe tomatoes and lemon juice | Lycopene contained in tomatoes helps prevent acne and get rid of acne marks. It activates collagen production and promotes skin rejuvenation | Grate several small ripe tomatoes on a fine grater or chop in a blender. Add a few drops of lemon juice to the resulting mass and apply to the face for 15 minutes. After this, rinse with warm water | Such masks can be made after 1-2 days. The course of treatment is 10-14 days. If necessary, the procedure can be continued |
Before you start treating acne with masks, you need to test for allergies. To do this, the finished mask composition is applied to a small area of the skin of the wrist for 20 minutes. If during this time there is no itching, burning or other unpleasant sensations, you can use a facial mask.
Ointments for acne treatment
Acne ointments are a medicine. They have been used for a long time and have a number of undeniable advantages:- ointments are based on substances that have a powerful effect on pathogens
- ointments penetrate into the deep layers of the skin
- have a long-lasting effect.
| Name of ointment | Ointment components | How to smear and what to expect from it | |
| Ointment Zenerit | Antibiotic erythromycin Zinc acetate | Has an inhibitory effect on bacteria that cause inflammation of the sebaceous glands and acne Prevents bacteria from adapting to the antibiotic, reduces inflammation and redness. Dries out acne | Apply to clean skin 2 times a day. The result becomes noticeable after 10 days of use. The full course is 10 weeks. This guarantees complete relief from acne. |
| Sulfuric ointment | Sulfur | Restores damaged cells and enhances the division and growth of new ones. Quickly heals superficial skin damage, softens it, removes individual epithelial particles | The course of application is 7-10 days. During this time, it is possible to cure acne. Apply to cleansed skin before bed once a day. Prevents the formation of scars and scars after acne |
| Syntomycin ointment | Antibiotic syntomycin Castor oil | Disinfects the skin, stops the growth and reproduction of bacteria Eliminates acne spots | Cleanse skin of makeup and impurities. Apply liniment in a thin layer. The effect is observed for 2-4 days, unlike other means, it lasts for a long time |
| Zinc ointment | Zinc | Dries, disinfects, treats inflammation | Small acne goes away in a matter of hours. When systematically applied to clean skin, the ointment can significantly reduce the number of rashes and even completely eliminate acne. |
Acne treatment creams
Acne creams are a relatively new treatment method. They are produced by pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies. Creams and gels are perfectly absorbed and do not leave marks on the skin. They can be used daily and applied over makeup.| Cream name | Cream components | What effect does each component have? | How to apply and what to expect |
| Baziron cream | Benzoyl peroxide, aqueous | Antimicrobial effect against Propionibacterium Acnes and Staphylococcus Epidermidis. Under the influence of the drug, the saturation of tissues with oxygen increases, the formation of secretions in the sebaceous glands is inhibited | The skin softens, moisturizes, becomes even, smooth, redness disappears |
| Skinoren cream and gel | Azelaic acid | A substance with a strong antimicrobial effect. Prevents the proliferation of Propionibacterium Acnes bacteria and the formation of fatty acids in the epidermis | To treat the face, squeeze out a strip of cream or gel 2.5 cm long. Apply the cream evenly onto the cleansed face and rub in lightly. Use 2 times a day. Eliminates redness and prevents the appearance of inflammatory and non-inflammatory forms of acne |
| Clenzit cream | Dapalen | A medicinal substance derived from a retinoid. It has anti-inflammatory and comedolytic activity. Reduces the intensity of the inflammatory process. Prevents clogging of the mouths of sebaceous follicles | Apply spotwise only to areas where there is acne. Used to prevent pimples from becoming suppurated and drying out. Do not rub or apply to the entire surface of the skin. |
| Differin cream and gel | Retinoid (vitamin A analogue) | Reduces inflammatory processes in the deep layers of the skin. Promotes the free outflow of sebum from the gland. Reduces the number of bacteria in the sebaceous glands | The minimum course of treatment is 3 weeks. The cream is applied in a thin layer (without rubbing) to problem areas once a day before bed. You must first clean and dry the skin. |
| Kvotlan cream | Triethylene glycol Ethylcarbitol Cetylpyridinium chloride monohydrate | Disinfects the skin and creates a barrier to bacteria Destroys bacteria, viruses and fungi Accelerates healing and regeneration processes | Apply with your fingertips to areas of inflammation. The result of the treatment is visible within a week. The skin becomes clean, inflammation, scars, and post-acne disappear |
| Klerasil ultra - fast acting cream | 2% salicylic acid | Penetrates deep into pores and exfoliates dead cells, and also helps relieve redness and inflammation of acne. | Cleanse the skin. Apply a small amount to acne areas. Use morning and evening. Reduces acne within 4 hours. It is advisable to combine with cleansing gel or lotion |
| Klindovit | Antibiotic clindamycin | Accumulates in comedones and prevents the proliferation of microorganisms | Within 10 days it completely eliminates purulent acne. Also effective against other rashes |
| Acne cream "Clean Skin" Garnier | Salicylic acid Regenerating complex | Reduces acne and prevents new breakouts Improves overall skin condition, accelerates healing | The effect appears after 24 hours. Complete relief from acne occurs after 2 weeks of use. Provides a healthy appearance of the skin, has a mattifying effect, eliminates oily shine in the T-zone and marks after acne |
| Anti-acne cream-gel for problem skin “Before and after” | Complex of extracts of green tea, string, calendula, chamomile, arnica | The antimicrobial effect is due to the interaction and mutual reinforcement of the components. Has a strong healing effect. Inhibits the secretion of sebaceous glands | Apply 2 times a day. Apply to clean, dry skin. The duration of the course is individual, 2-6 weeks |
Use caution when using creams, ointments and gels. It is not recommended to apply large amounts of product to the skin. Also, you cannot combine drugs of different brands - this can lead to allergies. You should not expect quick results - the acne treatment process takes a long time and requires patience.
How to treat acne on different parts of the body? (Video)
Acne sometimes appears on other parts of the body. There can be many reasons for this unpleasant phenomenon. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist about this. You can treat yourself only if you are sure that acne is not the result of an infectious disease or sexually transmitted diseases. In such a situation, a special approach and the use of special treatments will be required.How to treat acne on the genitals?
| What to use | How to use? | ||
| Citeal | Disinfects skin and mucous membranes | This is an antiseptic foaming solution. It must be diluted with water 1:5 or 1:3 and used for washing. After the procedure, rinse the genitals thoroughly with water. | Microorganisms that cause infection of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles are destroyed |
| Diana-35 | Eliminates hormonal imbalance in women. Is a contraceptive drug | Take one tablet once a day. Drink according to the instructions | Normalizes hormonal levels. Regulates the production of sex hormones |
| Chamomile or calendula decoctions | Soothe the skin, disinfect, relieve inflammation | Used to wash the genitals twice a day | Relief occurs within 2-3 days. With regular use, acne goes away within 10-14 days |
How to treat acne on the forehead?
| What to use | What effect does the product have? | How to use? | What effect should occur and when? |
| Lemon juice | Has astringent properties, disinfects, tightens pores | Squeeze lemon juice, soak a cotton swab in it and wipe your skin morning and evening. | The skin looks smooth, acne scars disappear. Pimples do not go into a purulent stage, but resolve |
| Face wash | Reduces skin oiliness, disinfects, tightens pores | Chatterbox is prepared in a pharmacy according to a doctor's prescription. It is applied with a cotton swab to cleansed skin. | The skin in the forehead area is cleared of rashes, the pores are opened and cleansed. For the greatest therapeutic effect, wipe the entire oval of the face with the mash. Noticeable improvement occurs within 3-5 days |
| Klenzit with | Reduces the secretion of sebaceous glands, prevents the appearance of new acne | Apply a small amount of gel to problem areas | Excellent fight against inflammatory and non-inflammatory forms of acne. The rash decreases within a day and disappears after 7-10 days |
How to treat acne on the chin?
| What to use | What effect does the product have? | How to use? | What effect should occur and when? |
| Dalatsin gel | Dries acne and prevents the growth of bacteria in the deep layers of the skin | Apply to facial skin 2 times a day (morning and evening) | The course of treatment is from 6 weeks to 6 months (for severe forms) |
| Curiosin | Destroys acne without a trace. Makes skin less oily | Use morning and evening. Apply to clean skin | Does not cause complications and promotes rapid resolution of acne. Healing takes place in 2-3 days. There are no traces left at the site of acne |
How to treat acne on the face?
| What to use? | What effect does the product have? | How to use? | What effect should occur and when? |
| Streptocide ointment | Suppresses pathogenic microflora | Apply the ointment to the acne and a small area around it. Repeat 2 times a day for two weeks | Complete disappearance of acne within a few days |
| Tsindol | A product with a disinfectant and antiseptic effect. Prevents the emergence of new foci of inflammation | Shake the mixture and apply with a cotton swab to the affected areas 2-3 times a day. The course is 10-20 days | After a few days, redness and inflamed areas completely disappear |
How to treat acne on the back?
| What to use | What effect does the product have? | How to use? | What effect should occur and when? |
| Alcohol solution of salicylic acid | Dries out acne, eliminates blemishes, and prevents the appearance of scars. Has a strong anti-inflammatory effect | Apply directly to acne twice a day | Relief occurs within the first hours after application. Elements of the rash disappear without a trace within 2-4 days |
| Tar soap | Dries the skin, exfoliates dead cells, heals minor injuries | Lather and lather the skin, rinse well with water. If necessary, you can use a moisturizer | Acne on the back gradually disappears. With regular use, the skin becomes clearer within 5-7 days |
How to treat acne on legs?
| What to use | What effect does the product have? | How to use? | What effect should occur and when? |
| Cauterization with iodine | Antiseptic, perfectly disinfects the skin. Promotes resorption of acne and deep subcutaneous pimples | Lubricate the affected areas with a cotton swab 2 times a day | Within 24 hours, acne will noticeably decrease in size and will soon disappear completely. |
| Badyaga Forte gel | Biologically active components stimulate the immune system in the skin, improve blood circulation | Apply a thin layer 2 times a day | Skin color is evened out, minor defects are resolved, and damage is healed quickly. Course of treatment 5-7 days |
How to treat acne on hands?
| What to use | What effect does the product have? | How to use? | What effect should occur and when? |
| Aloe leaves | Clears acne from pus and heals | Cut a fresh aloe leaf lengthwise and apply the pulp to the pimple overnight. Secure with adhesive tape | After 2 nights, the acne will completely clear and heal. |
| White clay and tea tree oil | Disinfects and prevents the proliferation of microorganisms. Eliminates allergy symptoms | Mix 3-4 tablespoons of clay with 0.5 cups of water. Add 5 drops of tea tree essential oil. Apply to clean skin, leave for 20 minutes, rinse with warm water | Leaves hands clean and smooth. Effectively eliminates acne |
How to treat acne on the butt?
| What to use | What effect does the product have? | How to use? | What effect should occur and when? |
| Blue clay and badyagi powder | Saturates with minerals, treats inflammation, disinfects and cleanses. Eliminates cellulite | Mix the components in equal proportions and dilute with water until a thin paste forms. Apply to clean skin and leave until dry. Rinse with warm water | It is recommended to repeat the procedure several times a week. After just a few days, the rashes become significantly less |
| Scrub made from liquid soap and sea salt | Tones the skin, eliminates bacteria, gets rid of keratinized epithelium | Mix a tablespoon of fine salt with a small amount of liquid soap. Massage the skin and rinse with water. Do not injure acne where there are pockets of pus | Clear, healthy skin in just a week. After procedures, lubricate the skin with antiseptic cream |
How to treat acne on the body?
| What to use | What effect does the product have? | How to use? | What effect should occur and when? |
| Baker's yeast and lemon juice | Saturates the skin with vitamin B, normalizes its balance, improves blood circulation | Dilute the yeast with warm water until the consistency of sour cream. Add a few milliliters of lemon juice | The skin takes on a healthy appearance and gradually gets rid of acne |
| Levomekol ointment | The antibiotic in its composition fights microorganisms. Methyluracil heals wounds and stimulates local immunity | Apply the ointment to a gauze pad and apply to the boil for 24 hours | Treats purulent inflammatory process, promotes speedy healing |
For those who want to get rid of acne as quickly as possible, we recommend combining self-treatment with salon procedures. In order to completely solve skin problems, it is also necessary to adjust your diet and take a vitamin and mineral complex. It is advisable to exclude fatty, sweet, spicy and smoked foods from the diet. An active lifestyle also has a beneficial effect on skin condition. Regular exercise and walks in the fresh air will gradually restore the healthy appearance of your skin. Acne treatment requires strict adherence to all recommendations. But those who are determined to fight for beautiful skin will be rewarded with excellent results.
Pimples, or acne vulgaris (acne), develop against the background of seborrhea, that is, excessive secretion of sebum with altered properties. They occur in areas of the skin that are richest in sebaceous glands. On average, there are 900 glands per 1 cm2 of skin on the face, upper back and chest, while in other areas their number does not exceed 100.
The reasons that cause the formation of acne include not only excessive secretion of the sebaceous glands, but also hormonal imbalance, infection of the skin by bacteria, and pathology of the hair follicle (for example,). This condition is most often observed in adolescents, but adults also often face this problem. Acne is one of the most common skin diseases.
The peak incidence occurs between the ages of 13 and 18 years, and acne appears earlier in girls, but disappears faster. In young people, acne can take severe forms, causing significant cosmetic defects and worsening the quality of life, primarily due to psychological problems. In men, the pathology becomes chronic and by the age of 30-40 turns into late acne.
The first signs are increased sebum secretion (seborrhea) and microcomedones. You should consult a doctor already during this period to prevent the development of severe forms of the disease.
Main types of acne
Depending on the external manifestations, the following types of acne are distinguished:
- comedones;
- papular;
- pustular;
- inductive;
- abscessing, or suppurating indurative;
- phlegmonous;
- drain;
- conglobate.
The choice of treatment methods for inflammatory skin processes depends on their severity. In mild cases, home remedies are sufficient. With a large number of rashes, their deep and merging forms, the help of a dermatologist is necessary.
The formation of different types of acne occurs in stages. Initially, this is a blockage of the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands due to increased secretion of sebum, caused by the hypersensitivity of cells to sex hormones. This creates a breeding ground for microorganisms, in particular Propionibacterium acnes. As they multiply, they break down fat to form fatty acids that damage the skin surface. As a result of chemical irritation, an inflammatory process is formed.
Video: 10 Types of Acne and What They Mean
Comedones
The most common type of acne, localized mainly on the face. They form in the hair follicle, which becomes clogged with dead skin cells and excess sebum. turn into small elevations (papules) with white or black dots in the center.
This type of acne can be caused by certain foods - rich in animal fat, fried, spicy, salty. They are called comedogenic.
"Black dots"
The black plugs on the surface of the papules that open onto the skin are filled with excess oil and skin cells. Their color is not due to the accumulation of dirt, but to improper reflection of light rays from clogged hair follicles, as well as changes in the color of sebum when exposed to air.
Sometimes the appearance of pathology is associated with improper use of cosmetics based on oils and moisturizing components. Pollution and high environmental humidity matter. Additionally, blackheads can appear due to excessive use of soaps and other cleansers. Dry skin leads to increased sebum production and clogged pores.
Open comedones often form on the forehead, chin, and nose. Over-the-counter acne medications are usually sufficient to treat them.
"White heads"
If the excretory duct of the sebaceous gland and hair follicle is completely blocked, pimples with white purulent heads appear - closed comedones. Their contents do not reach the surface of the skin, accumulating under its top layer and causing the formation of a bubble. Since sebum does not come into contact with air, it does not darken. Such acne can also be combated with the help of cosmetics.
Non-inflamed comedones are not accompanied by redness and swelling of the skin. They respond quite well to the use of salicylic acid. This substance exfoliates dead cells, opening the exit for excess sebum. Salicylic acid is included in special lotions, toners and moisturizers.
Pimples with white heads are less treatable. To eliminate them, in addition to salicylic acid, retinoids are used, in particular.
Papular
When inflamed, comedones turn into papular acne. The process is associated with the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria in the sebaceous glands, which cause inflammation and the formation of pus. Small, soft pink or red bumps form on the skin surface. The skin around them is often slightly hyperemic. These pimples may be sensitive to touch and may be slightly itchy. Squeezing out the contents intensifies the inflammatory process and subsequently leads to the formation of scars.
A large number of papules is a sign of moderate to severe acne and requires treatment by a dermatologist. Inflammatory acne is less treatable than comedones. To eliminate them, agents based on benzoyl peroxide, topical and oral antibiotics, and isotretinoin preparations are used.
Pustular
These are pustules, often developing from comedones with white heads. A red, inflamed rim appears around the lesion. The pathological formation itself is filled with white or yellow pus. It may have an irregular shape; pustular acne often merges with each other and protrudes above the surface of the skin. Typically, the appearance of pustular elements is not associated with severe bacterial infection.
You should avoid squeezing pimples, which causes dark spots (hyperpigmentation) or scarring on the skin.
Indurative or nodal
A type of subcutaneous pimples that look like large, painful bumps or nodules. They appear when the sebaceous gland duct is completely blocked, irritation and inflammation of the surrounding skin tissue.
These are dense formations to the touch. Acne penetrates deep into the skin structures and is often painful. When such formations appear, the help of a doctor is necessary. Usually, drug treatment with Isotretinoin preparations for internal use for six months is sufficient.
Abscess
When indurative acne suppurates due to the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, cystic formations are formed - abscessed acne. They are filled with purulent contents and resemble. The formations are painful, usually soft to the touch, and after their opening deep atrophic scars form.
The course of the disease is relapsing. The help of a dermatologist is necessary, and often consultation with other specialists is required, for example, an endocrinologist or immunologist. Isotretinoin is used for treatment. can be removed surgically.
Nodular and abscessed acne often appears with a hereditary predisposition. They can be observed simultaneously with comedones, occur with the progression of papular or pustular forms, and also combine into nodular abscess formations.
Phlegmonous
They appear when inflammation penetrates into the deep layers of the skin, resulting in the formation of tiny cavities filled with purulent contents. On the surface of the skin this is manifested by the appearance of widespread lumpiness. Gradually, the phlegmonous cavities merge into large foci, forming nodes of a red-violet hue.
Phlegmonous formations gradually break through and the purulent contents, often mixed with blood, come out through several holes. The course of the disease is long, it is very difficult to treat.
Conglobate
This is one of the most severe forms of acne. Conglobate acne often appears on the back, neck, chest, and buttocks. They represent many inflamed follicles that merge with neighboring areas of inflammation.
Such acne appears on the body of an adult, usually in men. They may be associated with the use of testosterone or anabolic steroids. Another name for them is fulminant. The onset of the disease can occur as arthritis, followed by profuse formation of acne throughout the body. For adequate treatment of the condition, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist.
Acne conglobata can accompany the genetic disease Klinefelter syndrome (trisomy XXY). In this case, they can occur on any part of the body above the knees. The pathology is accompanied by purulent damage to the joints and kidneys.
Degrees of severity and principles of treatment
What pimples and in what quantity are observed with different severity of acne:
- mild: less than 20 blackheads or white heads, less than 15 papules or pustules, and a total number of pimples of no more than 30;
- moderate severity: from 20 to 100 comedones, up to 50 inflamed pimples or the total number of lesions up to 125;
- severe: there are several abscessed blackheads of a dark red or purple hue.
How to deal with them?
For mild cases, it is enough to use special cosmetic lotions for 2 months. Moderate severity of the lesion requires medication. Treatment lasts several weeks, and often the severity of acne even increases in the first time after it begins.
In the severe stage, the main goal is to reduce inflammation and scarring. The doctor can prescribe a variety of medications and physical procedures that improve the appearance of the skin and the condition of the sebaceous glands.
Video: Acne remedies, review
Topical therapy is used to treat different types of acne. These are medications applied directly to the affected area - various. They contain substances such as benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, sulfur and zinc derivatives. Prescription medications, such as antibacterial creams and ointments with retinoids, are also used.
For systemic therapy, tablet medications are used. Antibiotics are prescribed - tetracycline, doxycycline, erythromycin. They destroy bacteria that cause inflammation and suppuration of acne. If necessary, the doctor prescribes other medications:
- oral contraceptives to normalize hormonal levels in women;
- spironolactone;
- antiandrogenic substances;
- isotretinoin (vitamin A derivative).
Isotretinoin preparations are very effective in the treatment of acne. However, due to a sufficient number of side effects and contraindications, they should only be prescribed by a doctor.
Lightning acne
This is a serious complication of ordinary inflammatory diseases. Against the background of a stable course of the disease, the temperature suddenly rises and signs of intoxication appear. Pustules appear on the skin of the entire body, with the exception of the head, quickly necrotizing with the formation of ulcers and subsequent scarring.
Acne fulminans most often affects adolescents 15-18 years of age with concomitant diseases of the digestive organs, such as colitis or Crohn's disease. It is assumed that irrational treatment of acne with antibiotics, retinoids, and hormones plays a certain role in their appearance.
Tropical acne
Appears mainly in young women after using sunscreen cosmetics and exposure to the sun or in a solarium. It is caused by the comedogenic effect of such cosmetics, associated with blockage of the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands with oxidized cocoa, sea buckthorn, and coconut oils contained in it.
The face, neck, shoulders, and arms are affected. White-headed comedones, papules and pustules appear on the skin. The rash appears in summer and disappears in winter.
This type of acne is a complication of common acne in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder, more often in women. Having noticed a pimple, they immediately begin to squeeze it out, scratch it and damage the skin. As a result, a bacterial infection occurs, purulent elements appear, which heal with the formation of scars.
Acne caused by endocrine diseases
Part of the pathogenesis of acne is a disturbance in the metabolism of hormones, primarily sex hormones. Therefore, many diseases accompanied by hormonal imbalance are accompanied by different types of acne. These include:
- adrenogenital syndrome;
- polycystic ovary syndrome;
- adrenal tumor;
- Itsenko-Cushing syndrome;
- some pituitary tumors;
- diabetes mellitus and others.
Rare forms
- Keloid acne appears in young men who shave their heads. The reason lies in the damage to the hair follicles. If such a pathology occurs, you should stop washing the scalp with shampoo and begin treatment with benzoyl peroxide, glucocorticoids, and sometimes antibiotics.
- Many bacterial skin diseases are accompanied by acne. However, it is not acne vulgaris. In this case, the main complaints of the patient are other symptoms - itching, burning, redness.
- Incorrect treatment of acne with antibiotics can be complicated by gram-negative folliculitis. The disease manifests itself as a pustular rash resembling acne, as well as the formation of deep abscesses.
- Facial pyoderma is a severe form of acne that only affects women under 40 years of age. It is accompanied by the appearance of nodules and pustules on the face, which then open to form small ulcers followed by scarring. The disease begins suddenly, often in women who have never suffered from acne, and progresses quickly. Isotretinoin and systemic glucocorticoids are used in treatment.
What to do if acne appears
Acne of any type requires long-term treatment. Sometimes improvement occurs immediately, but more often the skin condition does not change during the first weeks or months. The patient should not take too many medications at once. This can cause dry skin and the body's response in the form of increased sebum production.
If any skin formations appear, an examination by a dermatologist is necessary. This is necessary in order to distinguish acne from other skin diseases, such as:
- milia;
The problem of acne is familiar to many people. According to statistics, 90% of people develop similar rashes on their skin.
Acne is a disease in which the pores of the skin become clogged. As a result, suppuration occurs - acne on the face of an adult, the treatment of which is varied.
The following are distinguished:
Causes of the rash
You need to know what affects the appearance of a rash. Moreover, these can be both internal and external factors.
Among the causes of the rash are:
Treatment of facial acne in adults
There are many different means. The most effective ones will be discussed next.
Benzyl peroxide
Perhaps the most popular remedy when acne occurs on the face of an adult and treatment is needed. Contained in a variety of foods and medicines.
Important! Benzyl peroxide must be applied to the skin up to 2 times daily. Just 30 days of use and the positive effect is noticeable.
Preparations with benzyl peroxide have different concentrations: from 2.5 to 10%. Do not immediately choose products with the highest concentration substances, as this may result in irritation.
Benzyl peroxide has one side effect - dry skin. Therefore, it is worth moisturizing the skin with a cream that is not too greasy.
In the first days, the drug is best applied before going to bed. every other day so that the skin gets used to it. After application, the product must dry. 
Vitamin A preparations
Widely used to treat acne on the face of an adult - retinol or vitamin A. Vitamin dosage - 300 thousand IU for 14 days. Then reduce to 100 thousand IU for 2 months.
Usual dosage regimen: capsule in the morning, 2 capsules in the evening. It is important to adhere to recommended dosages and take the drug under medical supervision.
Retinoids are also used, which are similar in their chemical structure to vitamin A. For acne on the face of an adult It is recommended to use Acnecutane and Roaccutane as treatment. 
Azelaic acid
This is a natural organic substance that is one of the safest drugs for getting rid of rashes. Used in combination with other methods. Has an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory effect. The appearance of comedones is reduced.
The product has many advantages. It is non-toxic and does not cause side effects at a concentration of up to 20%, it can be used for a long time, hair and skin do not discolor.
Suitable for use during breastfeeding and pregnancy by reducing the dosage and frequency of use.
There are also some disadvantages - the maximum effect is achieved after 1.5-3 months of use, it is expensive.
Available in the form of gels and creams:
- "Skinoren";
- "Azelik";
- Azix-derm.
Important to remember! For different skin types, it is recommended to use different forms of the product: gels for oily skin, creams for dry skin. It is necessary to avoid getting the drug on the mucous membranes.
Recommendations for use: Apply daily twice a day in a thin layer to cleansed skin. Duration of treatment is from 2 to 6 months. 
"Differin"
One of the best and most effective products is Differin from the company Galaderm. It contains no antibiotics or hormones, and after stopping the drug, the skin condition will not get worse.
The product is based on the active form of vitamin A. The drug is sold without a prescription. The biggest drawback of the product is its high cost.
It is also produced in the form of an anti-acne cream - “Adapalene”. Action: preventing the appearance of new comedones, reducing inflammation, rapid healing.
The product is applied daily before bed to cleansed affected areas. Duration of treatment is 4-8 weeks. 
Chlorhexidine bigluconate
It is an antiseptic with antimicrobial action.
Release forms:
- gel;
- concentrate;
- cream;
- plasters;
- solution.
Cannot be used:
- for dermatitis;
- in childhood;
- during pregnancy;
- when breastfeeding;
- with individual sensitivity.
Chlorhexidine is used to treat the area around the opened purulent acne until it disappears. 
Processing process:
- moisten a cotton swab in a solution of chlorhexidine at a concentration of 0.01%;
- treat the affected area from the edge to the center with a cotton swab.
Chlorhexidine is recommended for use in combination with Skinoren-gel or salicylic ointment. First, the surface is treated with chlorhexidine. After (after 10 minutes) with another remedy. Duration of treatment is from 2 to 3 weeks twice a day.
The Healing Diet
Diet for acne involves the complete exclusion of certain foods:
- hot spices;
- spices;
- ketchup;
- mayonnaise;
- sauces;
- fatty meats;
- smoked meats;
- fried potatoes;
- sweets (except honey);
- fast food.
It is also recommended to limit your coffee consumption. 
Consumption of dairy products and nuts should be limited, since excessive use of them can affect the appearance of acne.
Note! Nutrition should be healthy and balanced.
Popular pharmaceutical drugs against acne
The most effective remedies in the fight against acne:
Cosmetic procedures
Spa salons provide a whole range of facial skin cleansing procedures. They must be selected together with your cosmetologist.
So, cosmetic procedures:
Benefits of most cosmetic procedures:
- no skin damage, stretch marks, compression, trauma;
- painlessness;
- redness and swelling do not appear.
Traditional medicine
Acne on the face of an adult: treatment with traditional medicine is carried out using a water bath at home. Instead of water, herbal decoctions should be used. They brew coltsfoot, mint, and birch.
A hot solution is poured into the container. The face is held over it for 20 minutes, with a towel thrown over the head. After finishing the steam bath, apply a mask to the skin.
Variants of recipes for homemade masks for the treatment of acne on the face in an adult:
Other means can be used:
- Lemon. Helps cleanse the skin of excess sebum. It is recommended to wipe your face with a slice of this fruit every day before going to bed.
- Grapefruit is effective for cleansing oily skin. You need to add a little camphor alcohol to the freshly squeezed juice. Wipe your face with the mixture daily.
- Oak bark. 20 g pour 200 ml of water and boil for 30 minutes. Wipe the skin with the cooled broth 2 times a day.
What to do to stop acne from bothering you again
To prevent acne from appearing again, preventive measures need to be taken:
Once it has been established for what reasons acne appeared on the face of an adult, treatment should not be delayed for a long time. A combination of medications and folk remedies will help achieve a faster effect.
In this video you will be told about the causes and treatment of facial acne in adults.
From this video you will learn about methods for treating acne and pimples on the face.
Unfortunately, not everyone is lucky enough to have naturally beautiful and healthy skin.
Both men and women, starting from puberty (from 12 to 15 years), are often bothered by profuse skin rashes.
Due to hormonal changes in the body, acne, pimples, and blackheads appear on the face.
- All information on the site is for informational purposes only and is NOT a guide to action!
- Can give you an ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS only DOCTOR!
- We kindly ask you NOT to self-medicate, but make an appointment with a specialist!
- Health to you and your loved ones!
It is very easy to distinguish these similar concepts.
A pimple is a lump on or under the skin, and an acne or blackhead is an inflamed duct of the sebaceous gland.
What is this
It is a mistake to believe that acne is just small skin defects.
Recently, doctors have begun to call this condition a disease, the causes of which are hidden inside the body.
- The disease often becomes chronic, haunting its owner for many years.
- There are many pores on the skin of the face through which a special fatty secretion is released, designed to protect the skin from the environment.
- Due to various circumstances, more secretion is produced than it should be. It changes consistency, becomes viscous and hard. Together with particles of dead skin cells, the thick mass clogs the excretory ducts, causing the sebaceous glands to become inflamed.
Microbes that live on the skin and do not cause harm under normal conditions acquire pathogenic properties.
- They begin to actively multiply, which leads to the formation of pus in the acne cavity, redness and pain when pressed.
- Sebum can also accumulate under the skin, forming a hard, palpable ball.
Most often, acne occurs on the face, especially in the T-zone.
- This area of the forehead, nose and chin, visually forming the letter T. More sebaceous glands are located here.
- The same applies to the décolleté area, on the back between the shoulder blades and on the shoulders.
Types of acne
There are several types of acne:
- vulgar- small red elements filled with pus. After they disappear, scars or age spots remain on the skin. Acne appears in teenagers when hormones are raging in their bodies. And they usually disappear on their own after the age of 25;
- milia- at first glance, harmless pimples with a white head. But as soon as the inflammatory process begins, they turn into purulent elements, and their number increases sharply;
- rosacea (pink)- these are papules or nodules that form in places where the subcutaneous vessels expand. They appear on the nose and nasolabial folds and can progress to a purulent stage. The skin condition worsens after prolonged exposure to direct sunlight;
- comedones– brown or black pinpoint pimples that clog the gland ducts;
- steroid– appear from an overabundance of drugs in the body. Hormonal drugs taken orally provoke the appearance of acne throughout the body. And external agents - at the place of application.
Causes of acne
It is quite difficult to single out any one reason for the appearance of acne.
Often, a combination of factors, both external and internal, leads to the formation of a rash.
Domestic
Internal reasons are as follows:
- hormonal imbalance - an increase in the level of androgen hormones in the blood. This occurs during puberty, during pregnancy, after childbirth, abortion, during menopause and at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Birth control pills can also affect changes in a woman’s hormonal levels, as can diseases of the endocrine system;
- metabolic disorders associated with stomach or intestinal problems;
- hereditary tendency;
- stress, prolonged depression, lack of proper rest;
- decreased immunity, vitamin deficiency;
- allergy.
External
External predisposing factors include:
- hyperkeratosis - dysfunction of the stratum corneum of the skin;
- life activity and reproduction of microorganisms (propionic bacteria, staphylococcus, fungi, demodex mites);
- fat-based facial cosmetics that clog pores;
- poor hygiene;
- increased sweating;
- exposure to ultraviolet radiation;
- overheating or hypothermia;
- extrusion;
- washing your skin too often.
Photo: self-squeezing pimples
Diagnostics
Treatment of acne, pimples and acne should be carried out only after diagnosis.
A dermatologist cannot always cope with the problem on his own.
Photo: examination of the patient's skin by a dermatologist
In case of internal diseases, consultation and treatment by specialized specialists is required.
- For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, you should consult a gastroenterologist.
- If there are pathologies of the thyroid gland, see an endocrinologist.
- An allergist and immunologist will help you cope with allergy symptoms.
Acne treatment
Treatment of acne, pimples or acne should begin as early as possible and be comprehensive.
A large number of blackheads almost always leave marks on the skin. Conventional skin care products for problem skin are unlikely to get rid of them.
Therapy should be long-term, so it is important not to rush things, trying to squeeze out pimples.
This will not help, but will only provoke the appearance of new rashes.
The choice of treatment methods directly depends on the stage of acne:
- You can easily get rid of several pimples in the T-zone at home with the help of cosmetic masks, proper nutrition and skin care;
- A rash spread over the entire face, shoulders and back, especially with the presence of deep purulent inflammation, should be treated in a professional institution.
Medication
Medicines against acne:
Photo: pharmaceutical preparations for the treatment of acne
- Vitamin A derivatives – retinoids. They allow you to remove sebaceous plugs and prevent new formations from appearing. This could be an anti-acne cream or gel or lotion. The drugs are combined with a solution of benzoyl peroxide (Effezel) and monocomponent (retinoic ointment, Retin-A cream, Adaklin, Differin, Klenzit). Apply the product once a day before bedtime to areas of inflammation, after preliminary cleansing of the skin;
- Azelaic acid promotes natural exfoliation of the stratum corneum of the epidermis and has antibacterial properties. It is better to apply creams to oily skin, and gel to dry skin twice a day. The course of treatment is at least 3 months. Acid-based drugs include Skinoren, Acne-Derma, Azix-Derm;
- Salicylic acid dissolves fat well, helps the epidermis get rid of dead cells, and destroys bacteria. It effectively fights acne, but does not always cope with acne. Lotions and creams are produced under the Klerasil brand. Regular use of salicylic acid leads to flaking of the skin. Therefore, you should not use it for a long time.
Teenagers are prescribed topical antibiotics (Doxycycline, Tetracycline) to treat acne.
But they must be used strictly according to doctor's instructions. Bacteria quickly develop resistance to many systemic agents. Therefore, another time the same drugs may not have the desired effect.
It has been established that Erythromycin has the greatest ability to destroy microorganisms on the surface of the skin.
This antibiotic is part of the acne drug “Zinerit”.
For women, the doctor may prescribe a course of hormones in the form of oral contraceptives.
At the cosmetologist's
Photo: mechanical facial cleansing in the salon
In their opinion, the best cure for acne is cleansing the skin.
For these purposes, there are mechanical and hardware cleaning methods, as well as medicinal cosmetics.
Local impact
- The salon has a whole arsenal of tools for removing acne and removing sebaceous plugs.
- In addition to cleansing the skin, the doctor uses special masks based on clay, oils, lotions, serums, and may recommend cosmetics for skin care at home.
Application of medicinal cosmetics
Recently, rashes have long ceased to occur only in adolescents.
Photo: line of medical cosmetics against acne
In this regard, many medicinal cosmeceuticals have been developed for problem skin.
The products are produced according to strict standards and are equivalent to medicines.
They are able to act not only on the surface of the dermis, but also penetrate into deeper layers. But only a doctor should recommend and select them.
Salon treatments
The cosmetologist chooses the course of necessary procedures individually depending on the condition of the skin and the financial capabilities of the patient.
This could be: mechanical, vacuum or ultrasonic cleaning, grinding, vitamin, chemical or fruit peeling, cryotherapy, phototherapy, ozone therapy.
At home
In order for acne treatment to please you with the results, you need to properly care for your skin:
Photo: using mild skin cleansers
- cleanse the skin twice a day with mild cleansers;
- use peelings once a week. You can prepare a mixture of ground oatmeal and baking soda and rub it in a circular motion into the skin, and then rinse with water.
- Special cosmetic strips for the nose will help get rid of impurities in the pores;
- Do not use alcohol-containing care products;
- It is better to wash your face with tar soap, and add a little apple cider vinegar to the water;
- It is useful to drink 2–4 tablespoons of brewer’s yeast every morning on an empty stomach;
Proper nutrition
Doctors have long established the relationship between proper nutrition and a healthy body.
This statement applies only to the issue of acne, but also to other serious diseases. Although it has not yet been scientifically proven that foods can stimulate the formation of acne, people often notice that it does.
A surge of hormones makes the sebaceous glands work with double zeal.
This usually happens during puberty.
Photo: sweets, baked goods, smoked foods, fast food serve as provocateurs of rashes
Increased production of hormones is provoked by an increase in insulin in the body. Its level in the blood is influenced by nutrition.
Sugar, milk and confectionery are the main enemies of healthy skin, causing the endocrine glands to produce more sebum.
For beautiful skin, the intestines must function fully and be cleansed daily.
- The body cannot eliminate some foods on its own. They are poorly digested and rot in the body.
- Waste forms on the intestinal walls, and toxins are absorbed into the blood.
- The skin tries to work at its maximum capacity to quickly get rid of harmful substances.
- If you don’t help the body cleanse itself, then acne will definitely not go away; there will only be more of them.
If you really want to defeat acne once and for all, then you will have to exclude from your diet for a while:
Photo: foods that can cause acne
- smoked, salted, peppered, fried;
- canned food, marinades;
- sausage, frankfurters, pork and lamb;
- bakery products;
- fast food and refined products (chips, crackers);
- sweet carbonated drinks;
- instant coffee;
- Black tea;
- alcohol;
- sauces and mayonnaise;
- candies, chocolate.
Such food is completely useless; it contains no vitamins or other beneficial microelements. The body will only be happy when it stops receiving it.
Feel free to eat healthy foods:
- lean meats (chicken, rabbit, turkey);
- sea fish;
- any vegetables and fruits, berries and herbs;
- nuts;
- legumes, peas;
- rice, buckwheat, oatmeal;
- coffee beans;
- green tea;
- purified water;
- sour milk;
- rye and bran bread.
Within a few days after starting the diet, pleasant changes will become noticeable.
- At first, you will feel lightness in your body, a lot of energy, and your mood and sleep will improve.
- With regular, proper nutrition, the number of pimples will gradually decrease and they will become less painful.
Phytotherapy
Natural ingredients are used for preparation.
It is useful to wipe the skin:
Photo: rubbing the skin with calendula decoction dries out rashes and has an antibacterial effect
- decoctions of calendula, celandine, plantain, marshmallow root. A few tablespoons of dry herb are poured with boiling water and allowed to brew;
- from herbal decoctions;
Photo: ice cubes with chamomile soothe, have an antibacterial and drying effect
- water with the addition of a teaspoon of honey and calendula tincture;
- juice of aloe, Kalanchoe, fresh tomato, onion.
Video: “How to get rid of acne and pimples quickly using folk remedies”
Folk remedies
If the acne is not inflamed, then steam baths for the face or a bath will help.
- You need to hover your face by tilting it over a container with a decoction of string, chamomile, coltsfoot.
- Cover your head with a towel.
Photo: a steam bath with medicinal herbs and essential oils opens the pores and promotes the penetration of medicinal components into the skin
- Under the influence of hot air, the pores open. A cleansing mask will help remove impurities from them.
If the rash is red and its elements are painful when pressed, then you should not expose the skin to high temperatures.
This will only spread the infection to healthy areas. The bacteria can even enter the bloodstream, causing sepsis.
The recipes for homemade masks are as follows:
- from a tablespoon of white clay, a drop of lemon juice and tea tree oil;
- from fresh cottage cheese and oats in a ratio of 2 to 1;
- from two tablespoons of yeast, diluted with 10 ml of hydrogen peroxide;
- from crushed aspirin tablets, two tablespoons of honey and a teaspoon of water.
Any mask is left on the skin for 15 to 20 minutes and then washed off with warm mineral water.
After the procedure, it is necessary to moisturize the skin with cream or cosmetic oil.
Prevention
Following the rules of prevention will prevent acne from appearing again:
- cosmetics should be chosen that are water-based, paying attention to the presence of the “non-comedogenic” mark on the packaging;
- You should not use a scrub to cleanse the skin; it contains too large abrasive particles that injure the skin;
- you can ask your therapist to prescribe vitamins if balancing is not possible;
- you need to spend more time in the fresh air, relax, and be less nervous.
Psychosomatics
Many adult women suffer from acne due to intense emotional stress.
It could be a new job, a session, an accident or unrequited love.
Acne causes more than just external discomfort.
She becomes the culprit for the appearance of complexes and self-doubt.
Especially among teenagers, for whom public opinion means a lot. Girls are more susceptible to mental suffering. They withdraw into themselves and avoid communication with peers and the opposite sex.
But instead of feeling sorry for yourself, isn’t it better to try to overcome the disease?
Don't let acne ruin your life. You need to gather your willpower and seek help from a dermatologist.
Questions and answers
There are always many questions about acne treatment.
For some, external medications are effective, others were cured with antibiotics, and still others visit a cosmetologist.
It is impossible to choose the right therapy for all people at the same time.
Only through trial and error will each person eventually choose those means that help him.
Is it possible to squeeze out
Under no circumstances should the eel be squeezed out.
- The likelihood that it will be possible to completely extract all the contents from it is very small. An infection gets inside and inflammation begins.
- And when you press on closed acne, the fatty membrane - the capsule that holds sebum - can rupture. Then all the contents will spill into the soft tissues, which will subsequently lead to the accumulation of infection and suppuration deep under the skin.
- Popping pimples will scar your skin for life.
- In addition, after the wounds heal, pigment marks remain - post-acne. The only way to get rid of them is with laser resurfacing. But this method is expensive and painful.
Video: “Face mask for acne at home with aspirin”
A disease of the sebaceous glands, characterized by blockage and inflammation of the hair follicles, is called acne ( acne), or acne. The variety of causes and clinical manifestations of acne, its frequent occurrence at different ages, and the cosmetic problems it causes make this disease relevant to many medical specialists. The main elements of acne are pustular and papular acne, comedones, nodules and cystic cavities. An individual and comprehensive approach plays an important role in the effective treatment of acne.
General information
A disease of the sebaceous glands, characterized by blockage and inflammation of the hair follicles, is called acne(acne), or acne. The variety of causes and clinical manifestations of acne, its frequent occurrence at different ages, and the cosmetic problems it causes make this disease relevant to many medical specialists.
The concept of “acne” reflects the cause-and-effect dependence of skin manifestations on the general condition of the body. Infections, disorders of the genetic, endocrine and immune systems, digestive and neuropsychic disorders play a large role in the occurrence of acne.
Acne occurs at almost any age: from the neonatal period to old age. Previously, acne was considered a purely teenage problem, but over the past decades, cases of acne in patients 25-35 years old have become more frequent. The most common form of acne is juvenile acne, observed in patients 12-24 years old in almost 90% of cases. Acne brings a lot of worries about their appearance to people of any gender and age.
Signs of acne
Eruptive elements in acne are represented by closed and open comedones, papular and pustular acne, nodular and cystic formations. Closed comedones are non-inflammatory white nodular formations that do not reach the surface of the skin. Further accumulation of sebaceous gland secretions, epithelial cells, pigment, and dust in the pores leads to the formation of open comedones with a black tip protruding above the surface of the skin. Typical locations for comedones are the skin of the forehead and chin.
Further addition to the existing blockage of the hair follicle of the inflammatory process leads to the development of papulopustular acne, and in severe forms - cystic cavities, phlegmonous and necrotic acne elements. Papular acne (Latin “papula” - nodule, pimple) is a raised, dense lump above the skin, up to the size of a pea, of a reddish-bluish color. Multiple papules give the skin an uneven appearance. Papules may undergo reverse development or further development into pustules. Pustular acne (Latin “pustula” - pustule) is a painful vesicle with purulent contents of a softer consistency than a papule. Small pustules, up to 5 mm in diameter, usually heal without a trace; large pustules often leave scar defects.
Further development of inflammatory elements of acne can lead to the appearance of nodes and cystic cavities. The nodes are large infiltrates (more than 5 mm in diameter) located in the dermis and subcutaneous fat. With reverse development, the nodes disintegrate, ulcerate and heal with a scar. Cysts are cavity formations filled with pus, purple-bluish in color. Healing of cysts also occurs with the formation of a scar.
Mechanism of acne development
The mechanism of acne is due to the mutual action of 4 factors:
- Excessive increase in the secretion of the sebaceous glands. Hypersecretion of sebum leads to a decrease in its bactericidal properties and a change in consistency. The secretion of the sebaceous glands becomes dense, forming plugs in the ducts and blocking them. Often observed during rapid puberty in adolescents and in the last week of the menstrual cycle in women.
- Follicular hyperkeratosis. The development of follicular hyperkeratosis is based on a disruption of the normal process of constant renewal of hair follicle cells. Thickening of the superficial stratum corneum of the hair follicles, along with sebaceous plugs, creates an additional obstacle to the outflow of sebaceous gland secretions.
- Reproduction of propionic acne bacteria(Propionibacterium acnes). Microorganisms that live in large numbers on the skin of healthy people, under certain conditions, can cause the development of acute inflammatory reactions. The sebaceous-horny plugs of hair follicles are a favorable environment for their increased reproduction and active life. The leading role in the appearance of acne belongs to propionic acne bacteria.
- Inflammation. The active proliferation of propionic acne bacteria leads to a tissue response and the development of inflammation in them.
Endogenous causes of acne
The basis for the appearance of acne is a dysfunction of the sebaceous glands - hypersecretion of sebum. This occurs under the influence of a number of internal and external reasons that create favorable conditions for the development of acne.
Testosterone and acne
One of the most common causes of acne in adolescence is hormonal changes in the body. The active release of steroid hormones, especially androgens - male sex hormones, in both girls and boys causes increased secretion of the sebaceous glands. Sebum changes its properties, turning from liquid to dense and viscous.
Features of hormonal levels and skin reactions can be inherited. Therefore, the likelihood of teenage acne in young people whose parents suffered from acne is much higher than in their peers with no family history.
Premenstrual acne
The level of steroid hormones in women fluctuates during the menstrual cycle and increases in its final phase. This circumstance is associated with the appearance of acne approximately a week before menstruation in 70% of women. Even those who do not suffer from acne often notice the appearance of single pimples on their chin on the eve of their period.
"Hormonal" acne
The appearance of pimples and acne during adolescence is physiologically determined. However, if acne persists into adulthood, then this is a serious signal to think about your health. Typically, the presence of such acne indicates disturbances in the production of sex hormones.
In women, so-called hormonal acne can be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome, pregnancy or abortion, i.e. conditions associated with sudden changes in hormonal levels.
Surgical procedures are not widely used in the treatment of acne, because they lead to the formation of rough scars. In the treatment of abscess forms of acne, it is possible to inject purulent foci with corticosteroid drugs.
From the experience of complex acne treatment
As practice shows, the best results are achieved by an integrated approach to treating acne. Since it was previously noted that doctors of many specialties are called upon to solve the problem of acne in the community, the observed patients with acne had to undergo a comprehensive examination by a dermatologist, gastroenterologist, endocrinologist, and gynecologist. The choice of methods and duration of treatment was determined by the severity and severity of acne, taking into account individual characteristics.
On average, the course of acne treatment was 7-8 months. At the first stage, it included external treatment with azelaic acid and metronidazole gel, as well as doxycycline. Additionally, cryomassage and darsonvalization were prescribed. A month later, the course included chemical peeling with fruit acids in gradually increasing doses. At the same time, correction of identified disorders in the endocrine, reproductive, and digestive systems was carried out. A month later, an interim assessment of the effectiveness of acne treatment showed a stable trend towards improvement: the disappearance of pustular rashes was noted in 89%, a reduction in the number of comedones - in 71.2% of patients, and the process of sebum secretion decreased. Subsequently, stable remission was observed.
Acne treatment prognosis
When predicting the long-term results of acne, the following points should be considered:
- Acne is a chronic, intractable disease, since hereditary predisposition or provoking factors can cause a new exacerbation, even if the disease has not recurred for several years. However, knowing the reasons that provoke a new wave of acne, you can clearly control and quickly relieve exacerbations of acne, prevent the development of gross cicatricial changes in the skin (post-acne) and the formation of persistent cosmetic defects.
- If the disease has already occurred, then the changes in the skin are irreversible, and it will not be possible to achieve its previous ideal state.
- A full course of acne treatment is a long process, taking 4 months or more.
- Treatment of acne can occur with exacerbations of the process, especially in the first months, when the mechanisms of disease development are suppressed.
- It is necessary to carry out a full course of acne treatment, without interruptions, even if there is a noticeable improvement. Untreated acne can manifest itself with a new exacerbation at any time.
Despite the fact that adult acne is a disease that will accompany you throughout your life, you should not despair. A modern selection of methods and preparations for external and systemic use can significantly alleviate the course of acne, carry out timely prevention of its exacerbations, and avoid serious complications and destructive changes in the skin. Today, acne treatment is carried out at all stages of the disease, allowing one to achieve good cosmetic results and long-term remission.
