Acne Treatment Guide: From Causes to Cures

Acne happens to be one of the most common skin concerns across the globe. Yet, often, we don’t know how to confront it. However, like any other trouble, acne can be tackled completely once you know everything about it - from cause to cure. Dive right in to understand this skin concern properly and what makes it disappear.

Keynotes:

• Acne is largely caused by clogged pores from excess sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria.
• Common types include comedonal acne (blackheads/whiteheads), inflammatory acne (red bumps/pustules), and severe cystic acne (painful, deep lumps).
• Topical treatments like serums and creams, natural remedies like tea tree oil, and clinical treatments like chemical peels and laser therapy are the most sought-after solutions for acne.
• Use a regular skin regimen with cleansing gel, toner, acne-fighting serum, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and sunscreen to prevent more flare-ups.

Acne, or acne vulgaris, is a skin condition in which the follicles become clogged with sebum(the oil produced by the skin), dirt, or dead skin cells. Acne usually manifests as papules, pustules, blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, or nodules, and you can commonly find it on your face, chest, back, and shoulders. Acne vulgaris, the most common type of acne, usually has mild to moderate symptoms. But when left unchecked, acne leads to deep scars and hyperpigmentation and may even affect your self-esteem.

Your acne treatment largely depends on the causes and symptoms you’ve been facing, along with your skin type. This is why understanding the basics is crucial.

What Causes Acne?

Acne sets in when your skin’s sebaceous glands produce excessive sebum. The sebum mixes with dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria on your skin, clogging the pores. Several factors can be the culprit behind excessive sebum, some being -

• Hormonal Changes:

  Teenagers deal with a fair share of hormonal fluctuations. These changes can enlarge your sebaceous glands or pores, leading to excessive sebum production, which then causes acne.

• Bacterial Growth:

  Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a bacteria that thrives in clogged pores. This bacteria causes inflammation and leads to acne. When a pimple pops, this bacteria spreads to the rest of your skin and causes an acne breakout.

• Genetic Factors:

  Genetics plays a significant role in determining the severity and frequency of acne outbreaks. If you have a family history of acne, chances are that you’re predisposed to the condition too.

• Diet and Lifestyle:

  Certain dietary factors, such as high glycemic index foods, can exacerbate acne symptoms. They lead to a spike in insulin, which causes oily skin and acne.

The Different Types of Acne

Acne shows up differently depending on its cause. This may change the direction of your acne treatment, too. Getting a handle on the severity of your acne and the different types can help guide the best acne treatment options:

• Comedonal Acne:

  Symptoms - Comedones are what clog the pores of your skin. Comedonal acne shows up as blackheads and whiteheads, blocking your pores, often around your chin and on the nose.
  
  Causes - Clogged follicles due to oiliness, dietary factors, hormones, or overhydration can lead to comedonal acne.

• Inflammatory Acne:

  Symptoms - Inflammatory acne shows up as papules (small, red bumps) or pustules (pus-filled pimples). These are larger, more inflamed, and can lead to skin irritation.
  
  Causes - Once your pores are clogged with impurities trapped within, bacteria like Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis can lead to an infection and trigger inflammation.

• Nodulocystic and cystic Acne:

  Symptoms - This tends to be one of the most severe forms of acne, leaving you with deep, painful cysts that can last for weeks or months. Cystic or nodular acne creates hard lumpy knots deep under your skin’s surface. On the surface, they show up as red bumps with no whitehead at the center.
  
  Cause - Nodular acne is caused when a bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) gets trapped deep under your skin. This forms a lump of pus under the skin’s surface that looks like inflamed acne.

Acne treatments are often targeted toward its symptoms, too. While your dermatologist may prescribe antibacterial ointments, they may also ask you to use acne scar treatments simultaneously. Before you hop onto solutions, it’s vital to take a look at the symptoms of acne and assess whether you’ve been facing any.

• Uneven skin:

  Acne looks like evident bumps on your skin, leaving you with an uneven texture and tone.

• Pain and inflammation:

  Acne on your skin can be painful, sensitive, and swollen. From smaller bumps to more painful nodules, acne can leave your skin inflamed and irritated.

• Pus-filled pimples:

  At times, acne lesions may come with pus-filled pimples that may cause them to appear white or yellow at the center (pustules). If you pop a pimple, you might push the pus deeper into your skin, leading to more inflammation.

• Scars:

  Acne often leaves you with raised or dented skin texture, caused by damage to the skin’s collagen tissue. This rough texture usually needs a dedicated acne scar treatment.

• Marks:

  Acne marks or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are the blemishes left behind by healing acne. They’re often darker than your skin and leave you with an uneven tone.

The first step in starting your acne treatment is a proper diagnosis. Talk to your dermatologist to rule out other conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or underlying skin disorders. Your dermatologist may typically classify acne based on its severity and set a course of treatment. Meanwhile, it’s best to invest in non-comedogenic acne-fighting products like a cleanser, toner, serum, and an oil-free sunscreen.

Depending on your symptoms and causes, your acne treatment can take several routines. Topical treatments, skin regimens, natural treatments, and OTC ointments are several common options. However, in case of severe symptoms, a dermatologist may recommend isotretinoins, laser treatments, and even oral medication. Here’s all you must know about different types of acne treatments -

Topical Acne Treatments

Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against acne vulgaris. Some of the most effective treatments include -

• Salicylic Acid:

  A BHA(beta-hydroxy acid) exfoliant, salicylic acid helps you unclog pores and targets comedonal acne. It’s especially useful for mild acne-like whiteheads and blackheads.

• Glycolic acid:

  As an AHA exfoliant, glycolic acid is suitable for drying normally and helps you unclog pores while reversing pigmentation.

• Benzoyl Peroxide:

  Benzoyl Peroxide or BPO is known for its antibacterial properties that help you reduce P. acnes and decrease inflammation.

• Retinoids:

  Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that help promote skin cell turnover and prevent clogged pores.

Natural Remedies

You can complement your topical skincare with some natural acne treatments from time to time. If home-made masks and creams are not for you, simply look for products with these natural ingredients.

• Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is renowned for its antimicrobial benefits that help combat pimple-causing bacteria and reduce acne lesions.
• Green Tea Extract: Acne often causes redness, inflammation, and pigmentation, and green tea extracts can help reduce flare-ups.
• Witch hazel, or Hamamelis virginiana, is a natural shrub with soothing properties. It helps shrink pores and calm sensitive skin.

Professional Acne Treatments

In case of extreme acne, your dermatologist may suggest professional acne treatments that help bring down the intensity of your flare-ups. You can combine a skincare regimen with oral medications and laser therapies.

• Oral Medications

  Acne can also be treated with medications like isotretinoins, minocycline, doxycycline, or macrolide. These medications help you combat acne-causing bacteria and bring down breakouts. However, you must consult a dermatologist before opting for any of these oral medications.

• Chemical peel

  A chemical peel is created with exfoliants, like salicylic or glycolic acid, to treat mild acne. The peel exfoliates the outer layer of your skin and may improve its texture and reduce the appearance of acne.

• Laser Therapy

  Laser treatments like IPL or blue light therapy can help you reduce P. acnes bacteria and improve the appearance of acne scarring or pigmentation.

Daily Skincare Routine for Acne

A skincare routine is a consistent regimen that helps you show sustained effects against acne. A simple 5-step regimen can help you get in all the layers you need.

1. Cleanser: Start with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser at first to remove excessive oil and dirt that lead to acne.

We Recommend: DermoPurifyer Triple Effect Cleansing Gel

2. Toner: A mild toner with ingredients like lactic acid helps you cleanse residual impurities and prevents clogging of pores.

We Recommend: DermoPurifyer Toner

3. Serum: Acne-fighting serums with exfoliants, antioxidants, and anti-pigmentation treatments help you fight acne. Dab in the serum on your cleansed skin and allow it to seep in.

We Recommend: DermoPurifyer Triple Effect Serum

4. Moisturizer: Even oily skin needs hydration. Choose a non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturizer that tackles acne marks and even helps you restore youthful skin.

We Recommend: Anti-Pigment Day Care SPF30

5. Sunscreen: Sunscreen is crucial, especially when using acne treatments that can make your skin sensitive to UV rays. Choose an oil-free, broad-spectrum sunscreen to fight off acne.

We Recommend: Sun Face Oil Control Gel-Cream SPF50+

Pro Skin Care Tips:

• Avoid harsh scrubbing or picking at acne to prevent irritation or scarring.
• Choose makeup products that are labeled "non-comedogenic" to avoid further clogging of pores.

• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

  Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support overall skin health.
  Manage stress, which can contribute to hormonal changes and acne flare-ups.

• Proper Skincare Routine

  Follow a consistent skincare routine tailored to acne-prone skin, and avoid using too many harsh treatments simultaneously.

• Regular Dermatologist Check-Ups

  Regular visits to a dermatologist can help monitor your acne progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

• Myth: Acne is Caused by Dirty Skin

  Fact: Contrary to popular belief, acne isn’t caused by poor hygiene. Overwashing can irritate the skin, worsening acne.

• Myth: Chocolate and Greasy Foods Cause Acne

  Fact: While diet may influence acne, there’s no direct link between eating chocolate or greasy foods and breakouts. However, high-glycemic foods may exacerbate acne in some individuals.

• Myth: Acne Is Only a Teenage Problem

  Acne affects people of all ages, including adults, especially women during hormonal fluctuations like pregnancy or menopause.

Whether you’re dealing with acne vulgaris or acne scars, effective treatment requires understanding its causes, types, and the right approach. From topical treatments to professional care, there are many ways to treat and manage acne. A consistent skincare routine combined with a healthy lifestyle and regular dermatologist check-ups will help you achieve clear, healthy skin. Browse through the vast range of Dermopurifyer products offered by Eucerin and opt for the best acne treatment that works for you.

1. What causes acne, and how can it be treated?

   Acne is caused when sebum, dirt, and other impurities clog the pores on your skin. Acne-causing bacteria manage to get inside these pores and lead to inflammation. Some hormonal, medical, physiological, and environmental factors can trigger it. However, with the right skin care habits and regimen, acne is very treatable.

2. What are the steps for acne treatment?

   A proper skin regimen is one of the best ways to treat acne. Start by cleansing your face with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser, and use a toner to remove excess oil and impurities. Apply topical serums with exfoliants to treat clogged pores and pigmentation. Close your regimen with a moisturizer, and use sunscreen to prevent acne flare-ups.

3. What is the prevention and cure of acne?

   To prevent acne, maintain a consistent skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and using products suitable for your skin type. Avoid touching the face and picking at pimples to keep your acne from worsening. It is best to consult your dermatologist before starting any topical treatments or medications on your own.

4. How to get clear skin?

   Achieve clear skin by following a consistent skincare routine with gentle cleansing, toning and using products that keep off acne and pigmentation. Your health plays a large role in determining your skin health, too, which is why it’s vital to stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and exercise to promote blood circulation.

5. What helps acne naturally?

   Natural treatments like tea tree oil, green tea, and aloe vera can help reduce inflammation and counter acne-causing bacteria. Natural antioxidants like Licochalcone A are also vital for treating inflammation. You can try Eucerin’s Dermopurifyer range to treat acne with gentle products that use natural ingredients.

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