What is acne and how can it be treated?

Nov 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

In general, acne may be caused by psychological stress, dietary factors, endocrine disorders, abnormal keratinization of the pilosebaceous duct, microbial infections, and other factors. Treatment should be determined according to individual circumstances. After developing acne, it is important to maintain facial cleanliness while avoiding excessive cleansing that may damage the skin barrier. Do not squeeze acne lesions manually to prevent worsening of inflammation, scarring, or spreading of infection.

Generally, acne may be caused by psychological stress, dietary factors, endocrine disorders, abnormal keratinization of the pilosebaceous duct, or microbial infection, and management should be tailored according to the specific situation.

1. Psychological stress: Long-term psychological stress can lead to neuroendocrine disturbances, causing the body to secrete cortisol hormone, which weakens the skin's barrier function and makes the skin more susceptible to bacterial infection and inflammatory stimuli, thus triggering acne. It is recommended to learn stress-relief techniques such as listening to music or meditating to help alleviate psychological stress and improve acne.

2. Dietary factors: High-sugar foods can elevate blood glucose and insulin levels, stimulating the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, thereby increasing the risk of acne. It is recommended to adjust the diet structure, consume more vegetables, fruits, and foods rich in dietary fiber to help regulate body metabolism and improve acne.

3. Endocrine disorders: When endocrine imbalance occurs, androgens stimulate the sebaceous glands to secrete more sebum, leading to clogged pores and the development of acne. It is recommended to maintain a regular lifestyle to help regulate the endocrine system. If necessary, anti-androgen medications such as diethylstilbestrol tablets or compound estradiol valerate tablets may be used under a doctor's guidance.

4. Abnormal keratinization of the pilosebaceous duct: Excessive keratinization of the pilosebaceous duct can cause the duct opening to become smaller, narrower, or blocked, preventing sebum from being excreted normally and triggering acne. It is recommended to use medications such as salicylic acid ointment or tretinoin cream under the guidance of a doctor for treatment.

5. Microbial infection: When excessive sebum production and clogged hair follicles occur, Propionibacterium acnes can multiply extensively in the anaerobic environment, causing an inflammatory response and resulting in acne. It is recommended to use medications such as minocycline hydrochloride tablets or fusidic acid cream under the guidance of a doctor for treatment.

After developing acne, it is important to maintain facial cleanliness by using a gentle facial cleanser and avoiding excessive cleansing that may damage the skin barrier. Do not squeeze the acne lesions manually to prevent aggravating inflammation, leaving scars, or causing infection to spread.

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