What Acne Vulgaris Looks Like and How to Treat It.
Most of us at some point have had a sudden pimple or blackhead form, or even flare-ups of them.
Pimples and blackheads are just two symptoms of the overall inflammatory condition the medical literature refers to as acne vulgaris. Its more commonly known as just acne.
Acne is the most common skin disorder in the United States, affecting 40 to 50 million Americans of all ages, races, and backgrounds.
Symptoms
Acne is the result of a blockage of the hair follicles in the skin. This blockage usually involves oil or skin cells. You may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- whiteheads, which are closed plugged pores
- blackheads, which are open plugged pores
- tender red bumps called papules
- pustules, which contain pus
- painful lumps beneath the skin, called nodules and cystic lesions
These outbreaks may not be limited to the face. They may also occur on the:
- back
- shoulders
- neck
- chest
Causes
Its important not to blame yourself for acne. Those old familiar tales about greasy french fries, chocolate, or dirty skin causing acne are largely false.
Instead, what happening is complex. The oil glands at the tips of the hair follicles in your skin are possibly overactive, usually due to hormonal changes. Pores become clogged and inflammation ensues.
This happens especially during puberty, which is why so many teenagers experience acne outbreaks. But acne can happen at any age.
Some women also experience acne outbreaks just before their period. Birth control pills may help manage this.