Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions affecting people of all ages, especially teenagers and young adults. While it’s often considered a temporary skin issue, acne can lead to long-term physical and emotional scars if left untreated. Understanding what causes acne, the different types, and the best treatment options can help you take proactive steps toward clearer, healthier skin.

At Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, we offer comprehensive dermatology consultations and diagnostic services to identify the root cause of your acne and design a personalized treatment plan for you.

What is Acne?

Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. It typically appears on the face, neck, chest, shoulders, and back. Depending on severity, acne can range from mild blackheads and whiteheads to painful cysts and nodules.

Causes of Acne

Acne develops due to a combination of several factors:

1. Excess Sebum Production:
   Overactive sebaceous glands produce too much oil, which clogs pores.

2. Clogged Hair Follicles:
   Dead skin cells and oil can block hair follicles, trapping bacteria inside.

3. Bacterial Growth:
   Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) bacteria multiply in clogged pores, leading to inflammation.

4. Hormonal Changes:
   Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or due to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can trigger acne outbreaks.

5. Genetics:
   A family history of acne increases your likelihood of developing the condition.

6. Diet:
   Foods with a high glycemic index, dairy products, and oily foods can worsen acne in some individuals.

7. Stress:
   Stress can lead to hormonal changes that exacerbate acne.

8. Medications:
   Certain drugs, including corticosteroids and birth control pills, can cause or worsen acne.

Types of Acne

Acne can be classified into three main categories — Mild, Moderate, and Severe, each with distinct characteristics:

1. Mild Acne

Mild acne usually involves minor breakouts and is easier to treat.

• Blackheads:
  Open comedones caused by clogged pores filled with excess oil and dead skin cells. The black color is due to oxidation, not dirt.

• Whiteheads:
  Closed comedones that form when the pores are completely blocked by sebum and dead skin cells.

2. Moderate Acne

Moderate acne involves more noticeable inflammation and requires medical treatment.

• Papules:
  Small red bumps caused by inflamed or infected hair follicles.

• Pustules:
  Pimples with visible white or yellow pus at the center, indicating infection.

3. Severe Acne

Severe acne is often painful, widespread, and may cause scarring.

• Nodules:
  Large, hard, and painful lumps under the skin caused by deep inflammation.

• Cystic Acne:
  The most severe form of acne, with pus-filled cysts that can leave permanent scars if untreated.

Symptoms of Acne

The symptoms vary depending on the type and severity but may include:

• Blackheads or whiteheads

• Red, tender bumps (papules)

• Pus-filled pimples (pustules)

• Large, painful nodules or cysts

• Skin discoloration after pimples heal

• Scarring and pigmentation

Who is at Risk of Developing Acne?

Acne affects people of all ages, but certain groups are more prone:

• Teenagers going through puberty

• Women during menstruation or pregnancy

• People with a family history of acne

• Individuals under stress

• Those using oily skincare or makeup products

• People on certain medications (like steroids)

Diagnosis of Acne

At Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, our dermatologists evaluate acne based on:

• Type of lesions (blackheads, cysts, nodules, etc.)

• Location and severity

• Medical history and lifestyle factors

• Possible hormonal or bacterial causes

If needed, diagnostic tests such as hormonal profiling, bacterial cultures, or skin analysis may be recommended to identify underlying causes.

Treatment Options for Acne

Acne treatment depends on its severity, type, and underlying cause. A combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes yields the best results.

1. Topical Treatments

Used for mild to moderate acne.

• Retinoids (Tretinoin, Adapalene): Unclog pores and promote cell turnover.

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces oil.

• Antibiotic Creams: Reduce bacterial infection and inflammation.

• Salicylic Acid: Helps exfoliate dead skin cells and clear blocked pores.

2. Oral Medications

Prescribed for moderate to severe acne or when topical treatments aren’t sufficient.

• Oral Antibiotics: Control bacterial growth and inflammation.

• Hormonal Therapy: Birth control pills or anti-androgen medications help women with hormonal acne.

• Isotretinoin: Used for severe cystic acne resistant to other treatments.

3. Advanced Dermatological Procedures

Offered at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre for long-term results.

• Chemical Peels: Remove dead skin cells, reduce oil production, and improve skin texture.

• Laser and Light Therapy: Kill acne-causing bacteria and minimize scars.

• Microneedling: Stimulates collagen to reduce acne scars.

• Comedone Extraction: Safely removes blackheads and whiteheads.

4. Home Remedies and Natural Treatments

While medical treatments are most effective, these remedies can complement them:

• Cleanse skin twice daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.

• Use oil-free moisturizers and sunscreens.

• Apply natural agents like aloe vera, tea tree oil, or honey (with caution).

• Avoid picking or squeezing pimples.

• Maintain a balanced diet and hydrate adequately.

Preventing Acne Breakouts

Prevention plays a major role in acne management:

• Keep skin clean but avoid over-washing.

• Avoid heavy cosmetics or choose non-comedogenic makeup.

• Change pillowcases regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.

• Maintain a healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, and low-glycemic foods.

• Manage stress through yoga, meditation, or exercise.

• Seek timely dermatological consultation if acne persists or worsens.

Acne Scarring and Post-Acne Pigmentation

Severe acne can leave behind permanent marks. There are two main types of post-acne effects:

1. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH):
   Dark spots left after pimples heal.

2. Atrophic Scars:
   Depressions or pits in the skin caused by tissue loss.

Treatment for Acne Scars

At Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, advanced treatments help restore smooth and even-toned skin:

• Laser Resurfacing

• Chemical Peels

• Dermal Fillers

• Microneedling with PRP

• Microdermabrasion

When to See a Dermatologist

You should consult a dermatologist if:

• Over-the-counter treatments fail to work after several weeks.

• You experience painful nodules or cysts.

• Acne leaves dark marks or scars.

• You notice acne flare-ups due to hormonal changes.

• Acne affects your self-esteem or daily life.

At Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, our experienced dermatologists offer personalized acne management plans to help you regain confidence and clear skin.

Lifestyle Tips for Clear Skin

1. Eat skin-friendly foods: Include zinc-rich foods, leafy greens, and antioxidants.

2. Sleep well: At least 7–8 hours of quality sleep aids skin repair.

3. Exercise regularly: Improves blood circulation and reduces stress.

4. Stay hydrated: Helps flush toxins from the body.

5. Avoid touching your face frequently: Prevents bacterial transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the main cause of acne?

Acne primarily occurs when oil glands produce excess sebum that clogs pores, trapping bacteria and causing inflammation.

2. Can adults get acne?

Yes, adult acne is common, especially in women due to hormonal changes, stress, or skincare products.

3. Is acne contagious?

No, it is not contagious. It cannot spread from one person to another.

4. How long does acne take to heal?

Mild cases may clear within a few weeks, while moderate or severe acne may take several months of consistent treatment.

5. Can diet affect acne?

Yes, diets high in sugar, dairy, and processed foods can worsen acne in some people. Eating a balanced diet can improve skin health.

6. Does stress cause acne?

Stress doesn’t directly cause acne but can trigger hormonal fluctuations that worsen breakouts.

7. Can acne scars be removed permanently?

While scars can’t always be completely erased, dermatological treatments like laser therapy and microneedling can significantly reduce their appearance.

8. Should I pop pimples?

No. Popping pimples can cause infection, inflammation, and scarring.

9. What skincare routine is best for acne-prone skin?

Use a gentle cleanser, oil-free moisturizer, non-comedogenic sunscreen, and avoid harsh scrubbing or oily makeup products.

10. How can Sparsh Diagnostic Centre help with acne?

At Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, we provide accurate diagnosis, personalized acne treatment, and advanced procedures like chemical peels, laser therapy, and scar reduction — all under expert dermatological supervision.

Acne may seem like a simple skin problem, but it often reflects deeper hormonal or lifestyle factors. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can prevent scarring and restore your skin’s natural glow. Whether you’re dealing with mild blackheads or severe cystic acne, professional guidance makes a world of difference.

Visit Sparsh Diagnostic Centre today for expert dermatological consultation and personalized acne care. Our specialists are committed to helping you achieve clearer, healthier, and more confident skin.

Sparsh Diagnostic Centre
📍 Visit us: https://www.sparshdiagnostica.com
📞 Call us: 9830117733 / 8335049501
🕒 Timings: Monday to Saturday – 7 AM to 9 PM | Sunday – 7 AM to 3 PM