ACNE

Acne is a condition in which inflammation and infection of the sebaceous (oil) glands and ducts results in pimples, pustules and cysts on the skin surface.

Causes
The underlying cause of acne, which ot one degree or another affects approximately 80 percent of all teenagers, is the glandular revolution that takes place with the onset of puberty. At this time, the pituitary governor of glandular activity alters the proportion of the male sex hormone androgen and the female sex hormone estrogen so that sexual maturation can be accomplished. Between puberty and maturity, both boys and girls have consistently high level of androgen. This temporary increase in the androgen level stimulates the production of the sebaceous glands which ordinarily discharge the fluid secretion sebum through the pores for lubricating the skin. Over production of sebum causes it to turn into a paste which backs up and plugs up the ducts extending from the glands in the underlying derma through the layers of the epidermis.

Symptoms
Since the skin pores are tiny and often clogged by dirt or cosmetics, the fatty sebum accumulates under the skin and forms a pimple, a whitehead or a black head. These manifestations of acne are most likely to appear on the parts of the body where the glands are most numerous, particularly around the nose, the cheeks and the shoulders. The dark color of the characteristic blackheads is not the result of dirt, but of the discoloring effect of air on the fatty substance in the clogged pore. Bacteria on the skin surface may eat their way through the pasty accumulation into the ducts and the derma itself causing not only pimples in which pus gathers but, in severe cases, cysts that damage underlying tissue.

Treatment
In a majority of cases, acne is a transitory condition that gradually diminishes with the stabilization of hormones in adulthood. In its mild form, it can usually be controlled by a rigorous routine of cleanliness and the avoidance of rich desserts, fried foods and cola beverages. Creams and cosmetics that further clog the pores should be eliminated in favor of medicated chop and hot water. Sun lamp treatment and medications containing vitamin A may be used under a doctor’s supervision. Pimples should not be “squeezed” since this method of eliminating pus can lead to more serious infection.

Severe cases of acne that leave the skin pitted and scarred require professional attention. The technique of dermabrasion, in which high-speed rotary wire brushes remove the outer layer of damaged skin, produces satisfactory result in many instances. It should not be undertaken unless a qualified dermatological specialist has been consulted.

Adolescents are especially sensitive about their pimples. A youngster whose emotional well-being is seriously threatened by skin problems may require a few senssions with a sympathetic psychotherapist for the necessary reassurance that acne in most cases is only a temporary condition.