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Acne

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Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder of the sebaceous glands that is characterized by comedones and blemishes. It is the most common skin disease in the United States, affecting up to 85% of people at some point in their lives. Acne is most common during adolescence, but it can occur at any age.

The sebaceous glands are tiny glands in the skin that produce sebum, an oily substance that helps to keep the skin hydrated. When the sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, it can combine with dead skin cells and bacteria to form comedones, which are small, raised bumps on the skin. Comedones can be either open or closed. Open comedones are also known as blackheads, while closed comedones are also known as whiteheads.

If the comedones become infected, they can develop into papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Papules are small, red bumps that are not filled with pus. Pustules are small, white or yellow bumps that are filled with pus. Nodules are larger, deeper, and more painful than papules. Cysts are the largest and most painful type of acne lesion.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of acne, including:

  • Hormones: Acne is more common during adolescence because of the increase in hormones, such as testosterone, that occur during puberty.
  • Genetics: People who have a family history of acne are more likely to develop the condition themselves.
  • Diet: Eating certain foods, such as dairy products, chocolate, and greasy foods, can trigger acne in some people.
  • Stress: Stress can trigger acne flare-ups in some people.
  • Medications: Some medications, such as steroids and lithium, can cause acne.
  • Cosmetics: Cosmetics that are comedogenic, or that can clog pores, can contribute to the development of acne.

There are a number of things that beauty professionals and estheticians can do to help treat and take care of clients with acne, including:

  • Cleansing: It is important to cleanse the skin twice a day with a gentle cleanser that is non-comedogenic, or that will not clog pores.
  • Exfoliating: Exfoliating the skin once or twice a week can help to remove dead skin cells and prevent comedones from forming.
  • Moisturizing: It is important to moisturize the skin, even if it is oily. Dry skin can produce more sebum, which can worsen acne.
  • Avoiding picking at acne: Picking at acne can cause scarring and infection.
  • Prescribing medications: In some cases, it may be necessary to prescribe topical or oral medications to treat acne.
  • Recommending lifestyle changes: Beauty professionals and estheticians can also recommend lifestyle changes that can help to prevent acne, such as avoiding smoking, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep.