Acne Vulgaris
While acne does not pose a serious risk to your overall health, it can still be painful, particularly if you have severe acne. Over time, acne might also cause scarring.
There’s no denying that acne can contribute to emotional distress. Acne and acne scars on your face or other visible body locations can affect self-esteem and self-confidence, and they can even contribute to feelings of anxiety or depression.
If you have acne, know you are not alone. In fact, Acne is the most common skin condition that people experience. It’s estimated that 80% of people ages 11 to 30 will have at least mild form of acne, and most people are affected by it at some point in their lives.
Acne is very treatable. A few effective treatments exist, so you have plenty of options for reducing the severity of pimples and minimizing the chances of scarring
Prevalence of Acne
Acne is a widespread condition, affecting a large portion of the population. It’s estimated that approximately 80% of individuals aged 11 to 30 experience some form of acne, making it the most common skin issue people encounter. Thus, if you’re dealing with acne, rest assured, you’re not alone in this experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Acne?
Acne might occur when:
Your skin follicles produce too much of oilDead skin cells accumulate in your poresBacteria build up in your pores
Certain things can cause these conditions to happen:
Fluctuating hormone levels (eg, menses, PCOS)Clothing (mask, hats)Air pollution and certain weather condition, especially high humidityUsing oily or greasy personal care products or working in an area in contact with grease (eg working at restaurant)Stress (increases the hormone cortisol)Some medications (eg. Steroids)GeneticsDo certain foods cause acne?
There is some evidence that high amount of dairy products and sugar may cause acne breakouts, although this remain controversial.
Eating a balanced, nutritious diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables especially those rich with vitamin C helps reduce inflammation
How is acne treated?
Various medications and procedure have proven to be effective. They target the underlying factors that contribute to acne. You might require at least one or multiple treatments, depending on the severity of your condition.
At Maple Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of treatment options tailored to each patient's unique needs and skin type. Our experienced dermatologists carefully assess the severity of acne and consider individual factors to devise personalized treatment plans.
Treatments available:
Topical application (eg. Benzoyl peroxide, Salicylic acid, azelaic acid, retinoids, antibiotics)Oral medications (eg. Antibiotics, Oral Contraceptives, Isotretinoin)Injections (eg. Steroids, Polynucleotides)Lasers and EBD (eg. Picosecond lasers, Microneedle RF, Yellow Light, Long Pulsed Nd:Yag)What causes pimples?
Pimples, also known as acne lesions, develop when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. This blockage creates an ideal environment for bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), to proliferate, leading to inflammation and the formation of various types of acne lesions. Hormonal fluctuations, genetic predisposition, dietary factors, and environmental influences can all contribute to the development of pimples. Our dermatologists at Maple Clinic can provide personalized recommendations to address the underlying causes of your acne and help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.
What causes whiteheads?
Whiteheads, or closed comedones, occur when pores become clogged with a combination of excess oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. This blockage creates a closed environment within the hair follicle, preventing the trapped debris from coming into contact with air. The absence of oxygen causes the trapped material to remain white or flesh-colored, hence the term "whitehead." Factors such as hormonal fluctuations, genetic predisposition, and skincare habits can contribute to the development of whiteheads.
What causes breakouts?
Breakouts, or acne flare-ups, can occur due to various factors that disrupt the natural balance of the skin. Common triggers include hormonal fluctuations, particularly during puberty, menstruation, or hormonal disorders, which can stimulate excess sebum production and lead to clogged pores. Additionally, factors such as stress, dietary choices, environmental pollutants, and certain skincare products may contribute to breakouts by exacerbating inflammation or increasing the proliferation of acne-causing bacteria. Understanding your unique triggers is essential for effectively managing and preventing breakouts.