What is acne and why does it occur?

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common skin diseases affecting 80-100% of people between 11 and 30 years of age. Most (about 85%) have mild symptoms course, while the remaining 15% have severe inflammatory forms that may significantly impact the quality of life and well-being.

Key mechanisms of acne formation:

1. Excessive secretion of sebum - caused by increased activity sebaceous glands
2. Hyperkeratinization - abnormal keratinization of the hair follicle openings
3. Colonization with bacteria - mainly Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes)
4. Inflammation - the immune system's reaction to bacteria and their products

Modern knowledge indicates that they play a key role in the development of acne two main factors: interactions between the pilosebaceous unit and its inhabitants microorganisms and sebum and its composition, produced by the sebaceous glands.

Types of acne - know your opponent

1. Juvenile acne - occurs mainly in teenagers, associated with storms hormonal changes during puberty
2. Adult acne - appears after the age of 25 or persists after the period maturation
3. Hormonal acne - related to hormonal disorders, common in women
4. Drug-induced acne - caused by the use of certain drugs
5. Cosmetic acne - caused by the use of inappropriate cosmetics

The main causes of acne - what really affects Your skin?

1. Hormonal factors

Androgenic hormones (testosterone and its derivatives) stimulate glandular growth sebaceous glands and increase sebum production. That's why acne often appears during periods puberty, when the level of these hormones increases dramatically.

In women, acne lesions may be related to: - Menstrual cycle (intensity before menstruation) - Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - Hirsutism (excessive hair) - Menstrual disorders

2. Genetic factors

Research indicates a hereditary tendency to acne. If parents had a problem with acne, their children are more likely to suffer from it too struggle. However, this does not mean that you cannot take effective care of your skin and minimize symptoms.

3. Diet - Your plate matters

The latest research confirms the influence of diet on the development of acne:

• Products with a high glycemic index - cause the secretion of hormones androgens through stimulation of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1)
• Milk and dairy products - contribute to the increase in IGF-1 levels
• Processed products - a diet rich in trans fats leads to lipid imbalance
• Simple sugars - slow down tissue regeneration, which makes inflammatory lesions heal
longer

4. Stress - the hidden enemy of your skin

Long-term stress increases the production of adrenal androgens, which increases activity of the sebaceous glands and intensifies acne. Tests showed the presence corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and its receptors on sebocytes, which promotes lipogenesis and induces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Setting aside some time for yourself and cutting down stress can significantly improve the condition of your skin.

5. Other factors

• Improper skin care
• Use of comedogenic cosmetics
• Environmental pollution
• Excessive exposure to the sun
• Some medications (steroids, antiepileptic drugs, antidepressants)

When to see a doctor? - Don't delay with a professional help

You should see a dermatologist in the following cases:

1. Moderate to severe acne - numerous inflammatory lesions, nodules, cysts

1. No improvement after 2-3 months of using preparations available without prescriptions
2. Scarring tendency - the formation of scars after acne lesions
3. Acne in women with symptoms of hyperandrogenism - irregular periods,
   excessive hair growth, androgenetic alopecia
   5. Acne of severe severity - may indicate endocrine diseases
   6. Acne causing psychological problems - depression, anxiety, social isolation

Remember that early consultation with a dermatologist can prevent scarring and speed up the treatment process. Do not postpone your visit if you notice disturbing symptoms - reserve some time for your health.

How to treat acne? - Effective strategies

Dermatological treatment - when you need professional support

A dermatologist may recommend:

1. Topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene) - normalize keratinization, reduce sebum production
2. Topical antibiotics (clindamycin, erythromycin) - fight P. acnes
3. Benzoyl peroxide - has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and keratolytic properties
4. Azelaic acid - has antibacterial, keratolytic, anti-inflammatory properties, lightens discolorations
5. Oral retinoids (isotretinoin) - in severe cases of acne
6. Oral antibiotics - in case of extensive inflammatory lesions
7. Hormonal treatment - antiandrogens, oral hormonal contraception (in women)

Mild acne - single comedones, a small number of lesions inflammatory

Self-treatment of acne is possible in the case of:

2. No tendency to scarring
3. No symptoms suggesting hormonal disorders

Home care for acne skin - take care of yourself every day Basic rules:

1. Thorough but gentle cleansing of the skin in the morning and evening 2. Use products with physiological pH (5.5-6)
3. Avoid strong detergents and soaps with an alkaline pH
4. After cleansing, the skin should not be tight
5. Use of anti-acne preparations
6. Active substances: salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, retinol
7. Use as directed, do not dry the skin
8. Moisturizing the skin - a key step you cannot skip
9. Even oily and acne-prone skin needs hydration
10. Choose light formulas: emulsions, hydrogels
11. Look for ingredients such as: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, glycerin, ceramides
12. Sun protection - your shield every day
13. Use creams with SPF 30-50
14. Choose formulas that do not cause acne (non-comedogenic)

How to relieve acne? - Natural ways to be beautiful skin

Natural methods for relieving acne:

1. Anti-inflammatory diet - Your internal solution to beautiful skin
2. Limit products with a high glycemic index
3. Reduce your consumption of milk and dairy products
4. Avoid simple sugars and highly processed foods
5. Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids (fish, nuts, flax seeds)

6. Eat more vegetables and fruits rich in antioxidants

7. Stress reduction - reserve some time for your mind

8. Regular physical activity
9. Relaxation techniques: meditation, yoga, deep breathing 

10. Adequate amount of sleep (7-8 hours)

11. Supplementation (after consulting a doctor)

12. Zinc - has anti-inflammatory properties and regulates sebum secretion
13. Vitamin A - regulates keratinization of the epidermis
14. Probiotics - influence intestinal microflora and inflammation
15. Lactoferrin - studies indicate its effectiveness in the treatment of mild acne
moderate intensity

Does what we eat affect acne? - The truth about diet and skin

Yes, diet has a significant impact on the development and severity of acne. The latest scientific research confirm the connection between diet and acne:

Products that worsen acne:

1. Products with a high glycemic index
2. White bread, white rice, sweets, soda

3. They cause an increase in insulin and IGF-1 levels, which stimulates sebum production

4. Milk and dairy products

5. They contain hormones and growth factors that can worsen acne 

6. Skimmed milk in particular can be problematic

7. Highly processed food
8. Rich in trans fats and simple sugars
9. It increases inflammation in the body

Products beneficial to the skin - your allies in the fight for beauty complexion:

1. Products rich in omega-3 fatty acids
2. Sea fish, walnuts, chia seeds, linseed

3. They have anti-inflammatory properties

4. Vegetables and fruits rich in antioxidants

5. Blueberries, pomegranates, carrots, spinach, broccoli

6. They fight free radicals and protect the skin

7. Products with a low glycemic index

8. Whole grains, legumes, most vegetables 
9. They stabilize blood sugar and insulin levels

Summary - Your path to healthy skin

Acne is a complex skin disease whose treatment requires a comprehensive approach. W In case of mild acne, you can use over-the-counter preparations and take care of them for proper skin care. However, with intensified changes, there is a tendency to scarring or suspected hormonal disorders, consultation is necessary dermatologist.

Remember that acne treatment requires patience - the first effects are visible usually after 4-8 weeks of regular therapy. A holistic approach is also important taking into account diet, lifestyle and stress reduction.

Reserve a moment for your skin every day - your patience and consistency will be rewarded with healthy, radiant skin.

Sources: 1. Consensus of the Polish Dermatological Society "Acne vulgaris: pathogenesis and treatment", Przegląd Dermatologiczne 2012 2. Article "Acne in adults - causes, characteristics, treatment", SuperPharm, 2021 3. Scientific research on the impact of diet on acne, Via Medica Journals

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