The cause of acne is multifactorial. Acne can be divided into non-inflammatory (open and closed comedones also known as blackheads and whiteheads) and inflammatory (papules, pustules and nodules) lesions. It presents different severity and stages. Genetic factors, obesity, unhealthy diet, hormonal imbalance, stress, unhealthy lifestyle, and physical irritants like mask contributes to the risk of developing acne.
These are the common major types of acne including:
- Comedonal Acne – blackhead and whiteheads
- Inflammatory Acne – red bumps and pus bumps
- Nodulocystic Acne – nodules and cysts that are often extremely painful
- Hormonal Acne – Pimples on the jawline and chin in women that flare with periods
- Pityrosporum Folliculitis – Yeast acne that presents with bumps on the forehead, back, and shoulders that are often itchy.
At Sheen Clinic, treatments can be divided into pharmacological and non-pharmacological.
Pharmacological treatment can be divided into induction therapy and maintenance therapy. Examples of pharmacological treatment include topical medication such as differin gel, adapalene gel, benzoyl peroxide, oral medications (eg. Antibiotics, isotretinoin), and intralesional corticosteroid injection.
Non-pharmacological treatment includes laser, chemical peels (eg. Glycolic acid, Salicylic acid) and comedone extraction. Treatments usually vary in each individual according to the severity of acne/acne scar and skin condition.
*Isotretinoin is contraindicated in pregnancy due to its teratogenic effect*
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