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Acne is one of the most common of all skin problems, affecting eighty per cent of the worldwide population in one form or another. The most common form is known as acne vulgaris. Another common form prevalent in adults is called acne rosacea. Acne is the most common reason for patients to visit a dermatologist and it also comprises the majority of diagnosed skin disorders. Most people experience acne of some degree during their lives.

What are Pimples?

Pimples are characterized by excess oil production in the skin, blocked pores and inflammation of surrounding skin and greater bacterial activity. These are an inflammatory form of acne.

What causes Acne?

Beneath the skin there are many sebaceous glands which produce oil. To keep the skin healthy, these glands serve to collect and excrete sebum, an oily substance which is necessary for the skin. There are various causes of acne and the four most common are:

1. Enlargement of the sebaceous glands causing excessive oil production which results in greasy skin and larger pores.
2. Blockage of the duct that takes the oil to the surface of the skin.
3. Excessive amounts of acne bacteria in the sebaceous glands. This acne-causing bacteria is proprionibacterium acnes.
4. Production of inflammatory substances in the skin by these bacteria.

Why treat Acne?

Acne can result in discomfort as well as the risk of inflammatory pigmentation and in some cases permanent scarring. Acne is often a cosmetic concern being regarded as unsightly and can have a damaging psychological effect on a sufferer’s self-esteem. It is often a contributing factor to decreased self-confidence, anxiety and, in extreme cases, depression.

Treatment helps to reverse and prevent the active acne and avoid scarring in the future. Treatments for acne are aimed at overcoming the causes of acne such as blocked sebaceous glands, excessive oil production and overgrowth of acne-inducing bacteria.

Using Laser Treatment to Treat Acne

Lasers as a way of treating acne have become increasingly popular over the past few years thanks to consistently good results and minimal side-effects such as those that can occur with antibiotics and stronger vitamin A medications. Lasers can be used to treat acne, especially when used in conjunction with topical agents which further improve its effectiveness.

For more information see Photodynamic Therapy Acne

Treating Acne Scarring

Acne, especially in its more severe forms, can cause scarring which is sometimes quite extensive. Treating these scars depends on the severity of them. There are a range of surface treatments available and for deeper, more prominent scars, advanced medical-grade lasers are used with fractional laser technology methods.

For more information see Acne Scarring.

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