What causes acne?

Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is a common skin condition that primarily affects adolescents, especially on the facial skin. The following is a brief overview of acne:

1. Causes: Acne development is associated with multiple factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, stress, dietary habits, and the use of certain cosmetics. Puberty is the most common onset period because increased androgen levels during this time stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more sebum.

2. Symptoms: The main symptoms of acne include comedones (whiteheads and blackheads), papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. These skin lesions may appear on areas rich in sebaceous glands, such as the face, back, and chest.

3. Treatment: Acne treatment typically involves cleansing the skin, avoiding overly oily skincare products, and using products containing ingredients such as salicylic acid or phenoxyethanol to help exfoliate dead skin cells and reduce sebum production. More severe cases may require prescription medications from a doctor (such as clindamycin phosphate gel or fusidic acid cream) and physical therapies (such as laser therapy or photodynamic therapy). Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a balanced diet and getting sufficient sleep, can also help improve skin condition.

If you have concerns or experience worsening symptoms, please seek timely medical advice.