ACNE SCARS

The most common skin problem which is marked by whiteheads, blackheads, pimples and even cysts are collectively known as acne. They are most prominently caused due to the clogging of pores on the skin which s often a result of dust and dirt. Although there are many other factors that contribute to the development of acne but mostly it is presumed to be an addiction of puberty. Hence it is mostly seen in teenagers but people of all age groups can suffer from this problem. Hormonal changes are largely responsible for acne problems. Now, this acne even after treatment and disappearance from the skin surface may leave their marks which are called scars. Acne leaves its ugly memory behind on the form scars which can make the person look unappealing. Acne scars are the result of the wounds on the skin which even after healing leaves scars due to too much collagen residue.

The most prominent cause of acne is hormonal change inside the body and no wonder teenagers are found to be more susceptible to these acne problems. Since the threshold of teenage and adulthood is the age at which many hormonal changes take place inside the body, these acne outburst is more likely at that age. Nevertheless, people who have left their teen ages way far behind are also found to be suffering from acne and its scars. Dust, dirt and sweat secretion are also responsible for acne formation. The skin or the dermis consist of many layers and possess pores through which sweat secretes from the body. The pores of the sebaceous glands secreting sweat are found on the surface of the surf ace of the skin. When these pores get clogged due to the presence of dust and dirt, they gradually lead to acne formation on that particular region. This process is aided by acne causing bacteria which helps the debris reach the layers beneath the epidermis called dermis. To sum it up the following causes can be attributed towards acne formation:

Acne attacks us in two ways and it is difficult to escape the second one if we are attacked by the first. Acne formation in itself looks very unappealing and even after being cured it leaves behind ugly scars that deteriorate our natural beauty. Acne is characterized by reddish swellings often quite painful. Acne scars are basically a cosmetic concern and most often people dread acne just because it diminishes their beauty and appearance. Although not many risks are attached to acne yet if active acne is left ignored it may lead to widespread acne formation on the skin surface.

Acne is indicated by slight inflammation in its early stage and pain around the susceptible region. It gradually deepens in color and becomes quite reddish and painful. It may appear as whiteheads or blackheads which are often very painful and do not get cured easily. They are often very itchy in nature and persons suffering from then often tend to use their nails to soothe the itching. This may worsen the effect because of bacterial infection. Or else they may just occur as red swollen pimples sometimes containing some pus inside. They may also appear as hardened cysts which are sure to left very ugly scars behind even after their alleviation from the surface of the skin.

Acne could be due to many reasons and going down to the root cause of the problem is essential for its proper treatment and cure. Acne may be a result of stress or overload of work. It may be due to hereditary factors and hence knowing the family history does help a lot in its proper diagnosis. Also the diet of the person contributes greatly in finding the cause of the problem. If all else still fails to analyze the cause of acne formation the patients may require to get their blood sample tested. This is the ultimate solution and gives accurate result behind the causal organism. Acne can also result due to excessive use of some harmful chemical-laden products. Some people do not think twice before experimenting with numerous cosmetic products for their skin regardless of analyzing their skin types. A particular skin cream may suit one person and may not suit another because the type of the skin is not the same. Hence, all these factors could also be considered into account while diagnosing. Nevertheless, the first and foremost thing is to get your skin examined by a professional dermatologist who would be the most appropriate person to comment on the right cause and prescribe the right treatment.

There are different kinds of treatment for acne and its scars. There are many OTC (over the counter) products consisting topical creams and lotions which have shown to have effective results but prescription drugs are more effective. They diminish acne scars in shorter period of time compared to the OTC products. A good physician often prescribes topical or oral antibiotics after keenly examining the acne.

Acne scars are mostly due to the deposition of the collagen after the acne wound is healed. Hence there are medications which help to remodel the accumulated collagen or help in the growth of new collagen can prove to be very effective. Alpha hydroxy-acid and Retin-A are found to be very effective medicines. Also the use of sunscreen lotions is recommended to prevent sun damage.

There is no complication of acne o its scars except for the ugliness that it imparts to the skin. However some cases may become slightly complicated because not only there is a widespread of acne formation but is very itching and troublesome. It can even create a sort of depression among the patients because of the seemingly endless acne on their skin. Moreover, the skin of the face is the region where acne formation mostly takes place and since every individual nurtures the desire of looking gorgeous and attractive, this acne can curb that ardent desire of mankind especially the faire sex.

Prevention of acne scars is only possible if you can prevent acne formation on your skin. Make sure to keep your skin clean and dirt free all the time. Avoid stepping out in the sun without putting on a sunscreen lotion or cream and most importantly eat healthy and live healthy.

Rivera AE, Spencer JM. Clinical aspects of full-thickness wound healing. Clin Dermatol 2007;25:39-48.