This is the most common condition affecting the skin that develops when the hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead cells. As the result, acne can appear on the face, forehead, chest and the shoulders. Generally, it is considered a problem of the teens, but, a growing number of women in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond continue to experience it. Although there are effective treatment options availablee3q it can be persistent, healing slowly and can cause emotional distress. Therefore, with acne, it is important to start the treatment early to help control it, to avoid scarring and to make the scars less noticeable.
- Whiteheads: These are small blemishes with whitish heads that develop when pores become plugged with sebum, dead cells and debris. They can range in size from being very small to large.
- Blackheads: These are the tiny blemishes that appear as black dots and are classified as comedones. Unlike the whiteheads, the blackheads are open, meaning the debris inside the follicle become oxidized.
- Papules: These are the phase beyond whiteheads and are the result of bacteria, sebum and dead skin cells resulting in inflammation. It is important to use medication to control the symptoms.
- Pustules: These are similar to papules but with pus. These are considered more serious acne lesions which lodge deeper into the skin, can be painful to the touch and can cause scarring.
- Cysts: These are the most severe form of acne and are large pus-filled lumps looking similar to boils. Cysts can cause permanent damage to the skin if left untreated.Chargeb s8e
Triggering Factors for Acne among Women
- Hormonal changes during puberty can result in the sebaceous glands to become large and produce extra sebum.
- Menstruation cycle is considered one of the most common acne triggers. Acne can develop a few days before the period and resolve after the cycle is complete. Also, the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and the use of oral contraceptive can also affect sebum production. Cutteruse of certain medications containing corticosteroids, testosterone or lithium.
- Stress appears to make acne worse.
- If family members have acne, then there is an increased risk of having it yourself.
- Studies indicate that the intake of various food such as skimmed milk and carbohydrate-rich food like the bread and chips can make the condition worse. However, further study is required to determine if individuals with acne would benefit from dietary restrictions.
When to see a Doctor?
In case over-the-counter treatments don’t clear the acne, it is important to see a dermatologist. Among women, this condition could persist for several years with flares before menstruation. In the case of older women, suddenly occurring acne could be an indication of an underlying condition that may require medical attention. Also, seek emergency if after using a skin product, any of the following symptoms occur;
- Fainting
- Tightness of the throat
- Unable to breathe normally
- Swelling of the eyes, face, lips or tongue
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20368048
https://www.acne.com/types-of-acne/acne-signs/
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/how-to-treat-different-types-of-acne
https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/acne