Acne
Signs & Symptoms of AcneAcne (acne vulgaris) is a skin disorder characterized by whiteheads (open comedones), blackheads (closed comedones) and pimples (papules). It most often affects the face, but may appear on the neck, back, shoulders and/or chest. Acne begins with hair follicles, which contain oil-secreting (sebaceous) glands. In normal skin, oil (sebum) from these glands is released on the surface of the skin through the pores. When the sebaceous glands enlarge, due to an increase in sebum, the glands become clogged producing blackheads, whiteheads and even inflamed pimples.
Who Gets Acne?While it's widely thought that acne is a problem mostly affecting teenagers, adult acne is just as common, affecting 95% of the population at some time in adulthood. What Causes Acne?Overactive oil-producing glands, which contribute to clogged pores, as well as genetic and hormonal factors play a role in the development of acne.
Types of Acne:
Treatment of AcneTreating Acne is a daily, long term process that includes a good skin-care regimen, topical and sometimes oral treatments and the advice of a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist. Dr. Kerry will suggest products or prescribe medications based upon four factors that contribute to your acne: sebum production, irregular or ineffective sloughing of dead skin cells, the presence of bacteria in pustules or papules, and the presence of inflammation. One or more of these factors may be present. Genetic or hormonal factors may also impact your condition.
A patient's response also depends on their consistent effort in adhering to the complete program recommended by Dr. Kerry and realizing that adjustments may have to be made. You may actually get worse before you get better and you must allow time for the body's response.
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