Understanding and Treating Acne: Advice from a Family Doctor

Acne is a common skin condition affecting millions of people worldwide, mainly teenagers, but also adults. As a family physician and medical director of French origin, who completed my schooling and practiced in France before settling in Quebec, I'd like to share some information and advice to better understand and treat this condition.

What is acne?

Acne is the appearance of pimples, blackheads, cysts and nodules on the face, back, neck, chest and sometimes other parts of the body. It is caused by a number of factors, including :

- Overproduction of sebum, an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands.

- An accumulation of dead skin cells.

- The proliferation of bacteria in the skin's pores.

- Hormonal changes, particularly during adolescence, but also during pregnancy or as a result of certain medications.

Types of acne

There are several types of acne, classified according to their severity:

1Mild acne: Presence of a few white or black pimples.

2.moderate acne: presence of papules and pustules in addition to blackheads.

3Severe acne: Presence of painful cysts and nodules that may leave scars.

Acne treatments

Treatment of acne depends on its severity. Here are some common options:

1Skin care: Use gentle cleansers, avoid comedogenic products and wash face twice a day.

2Topical medications: Creams and gels containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or tretinoin (often prescribed to treat acne).

3Antibiotics: Used to reduce bacteria and inflammation.

4Hormonal therapies: oral contraceptives or anti-androgens for women.

5Isotretinoin: An oral treatment for severe, recalcitrant acne.

Avoid comedogenic products

Comedogenic products can clog pores and aggravate acne. Here are some commonly comedogenic ingredients to avoid:

-Mineral oils and petroleum derivatives: Vaseline, kerosene, mineral oil.

-Waxes and emulsifiers: Lanolin, myristyl myristate, isopropyl myristate.

-Fatty alcohols and fatty acids: lauric acid, oleic acid, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).

-Vegetable oils and butters: Coconut oil, wheat germ oil, cocoa butter.

-Silicones: Dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane.

Practical tips for managing acne

-Avoid touching or piercing pimples: This can aggravate inflammation and cause scarring.

-Use non-comedogenic products: Choose skincare and make-up products that won't clog pores.

-Maintain a balanced diet: Although the impact of diet on acne is controversial, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats can help maintain healthy skin.

-Consult a healthcare professional: If acne persists despite basic care, it's important to consult a doctor for appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Acne is a frustrating but manageable condition. With the right care and treatment, it's possible to reduce symptoms and prevent scarring. Don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

For more information or to book a consultation, please visit allodocteur.ca.