Understanding Types of Acne and Their Treatments
- Hormonal Factors and Bacterial Activity
- How Bacteria Contribute to Acne Formation
- Treating Mild to Moderate Acne
- Special Care for Severe Acne (Nodules)
- Why Early Treatment Matters?
- Personalized Skincare Approach
Acne is a skin condition caused by the accumulation of oil, which clogs the pores and triggers bacterial activity. This condition can occur with inflammation (inflammatory acne vulgaris) or without inflammation (non-inflammatory acne vulgaris). Based on its severity, acne is categorized into three groups: mild, moderate, and severe. Mild acne includes blackheads and whiteheads. Moderate acne consists of papules and pustules, which appear as small, red, and/or pus-filled bumps. Severe acne, characterized by nodules, involves larger and deeper lesions.
Hormonal Factors and Bacterial Activity
Acne is commonly experienced during puberty due to a significant increase in androgen hormones, which stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce excess sebum. Improper skin care can lead to the buildup of oil and dead skin cells, resulting in clogged pores and providing an environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive. The primary bacteria associated with acne include Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes), Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis.
How Bacteria Contribute to Acne Formation
For instance, C. acnes produces the enzyme lipase, which breaks down oil into free fatty acids. However, an excess of these fatty acids can irritate the skin and cause inflammation. While bacteria are a key factor in acne formation, other contributors include hormonal imbalances, genetics, and environmental factors such as poor hygiene.
Treating Mild to Moderate Acne
Treating different types of acne classified by mild acne (blackheads and whiteheads). Mild acne can be addressed using skincare products containing salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), retinoids, and witch hazel. These ingredients help “dissolve” the clogged oil in the pores and act as anti-inflammatory agents.
Moderate acne (papules and pustules) marked by redness and inflammation, can be treated with sulfur, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. These ingredients penetrate the pores, expelling dead skin cells and trapped oil. Once the pores are clear, ingredients like retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and azelaic acid can be used to minimize pore size.
Special Care for Severe Acne (Nodules)
Severe acne such as nodules, presents as hard, painful lumps beneath the skin that can persist for weeks or even months. This type of acne is often caused by bacterial infections, particularly Cutibacterium acnes. Treating nodular acne requires specialized care. It is recommended to consult a dermatologist for this condition.
Over-the-counter products are insufficient; treatment may include corticosteroid injections, anti-androgen hormone therapy, or other medical interventions.
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Powerful Active Ingredients to Tackle Stubborn Acne
Why Early Treatment Matters?
Acne should be treated promptly to prevent it from spreading to surrounding skin or causing permanent damage, such as uneven texture and discoloration. Each type of acne requires different active ingredients for effective treatment. In addition to using skincare products, maintaining good hygiene is essential. For example keep pillowcases and clothing clean, avoid touching your face during or after activities, and consume a nutrient-rich diet.
Personalized Skincare Approach
It is important to recognize that skin conditions vary from person to person. The concentration and application methods of skincare products should be adjusted based on individual needs. Overuse or high concentrations of active ingredients can lead to irritation or complications. If over-the-counter treatments fail, consult a dermatologist for personalized care.
Before using or marketing skincare products, make sure the active ingredients and formulas used have undergone laboratory testing. Scientific content testing can help determine effectiveness, safety, and potential risks of irritation. This is an important step, both for personal users and business actors, to ensure the quality and safety of the product before it reaches the skin.
Author: Delfi
Editor: Sabilla Reza
References:
Ayer, J., & Burrows, N. (2006). Acne: more than skin deep. Postgraduate medical journal, 82(970), 500–506. https://doi.org/10.1136/pgmj.2006.045377
Li, Y., Hu, X., Dong, G., Wang, X., & Liu, T. (2024). Acne treatment: research progress and new perspectives. Frontiers in medicine, 11, 1425675. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2024.1425675
Mallikarjun Vasam a, Satyanarayana Korutla, and Raghvendra Ashok Bohara. 2023. Acne vulgaris: A Review of the Pathophysiology, Treatment, and Recent Nanotechnology Based Advances. Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports.
