Understanding acne and the treatments available

Acne (full name, Acne Vulgaris) is an extremely widespread medical condition, with around 80% of people between the ages of 14 and 17 in the UK suffering symptoms. As should probably be expected from such a common malady, a great number of myths have sprung up in relation to the causes and solutions to acne. In this article, we’ll explain what can cause or exacerbate acne, as well as inform you of the range of treatments that botonics currently offers to the public.

What causes acne?

Acne’s prevalence in teenagers is a clue as to its main causes, though the stereotype of an unclean, unhygienic teenager is unrelated (and in all fairness, probably unfounded) has nothing to do with the appearance of acne symptoms. Indeed, the NHS states that there is no evidence to show a link between acne and poor hygiene; while also disassociating the effects of a poor diet. Despite all the myths to the contrary, acne is most likely caused by changes in hormone levels; and hormone levels are most likely to fluctuate during puberty.

These hormone fluctuations influence the skin’s sebaceous glands to produce a greater amount of sebum; an oily substance which the body utilises to lubricate the skin and hair. This increased build-up of sebum is responsible for acne.

Are there different varieties of acne?

Acne itself presents a number of different symptoms; including papules, nodules, pustules and comedones, all of which are different varieties of lumps or spots; acne can also cause scarring. Another differentiator between cases of acne is in terms of location; common locations for symptoms are the face, back and chest.

However, at least one other skin condition is often lumped in with acne, as it presents similar symptoms, and is also caused by the overproduction of sebum; Pityrosporum folliculitis (sometimes known as Malassezia folliculitis). The differences between them are detailed below.

Acne vulgaris: With acne the excessive build-up of sebum causes two problems; blocking the opening of hair follicles; and making a normally placid skin borne bacterium, P.acnes, act more aggressively. A blocked pore presents an easy site for infection, and the now more aggressive P.acnes is more than happy to oblige. This resulting minor infection is what causes the obvious symptoms of acne; the now familiar inflamed lesions.

Pityrosporum folliculitis: In the case of Pityrosporum folliculitis, increased production of sebum cultivates excessive growth of the naturally found, skin-borne yeast Malessezia furfur. The increased growth of M. Furfur results in the blockage of follicles, leading to the formation of pustules. Ultimately, the symptoms are very similar to those of acne; as are the causes. This is why the two conditions can often be cured, or at the very least relieved, with the similar techniques.

What treatments are available to cure acne?

At botonics, we offer a range of different treatments for acne and related conditions, which we have explained here, for easy reference.

Roaccutane
When prescribed for the treatment of acne, Roaccutane is used to reduce the body’s production of sebum, effectively removing acne and Pityrosporum folliculitis’s primary catalyst, significantly diminishing their effect. As well as providing a private prescription, botonics will monitor your Roaccutane treatment from start to finish, in order to ensure that you are getting the desired outcome.

Prescription Skin Care
Prescription treatments are available to treat a variety of skin conditions, such as acne scarring, dark skin areas and even stretch marks. Providing a safe and reliable solution for clients looking to rejuvenate and reinvigorate their skin; it can bring back the youthfulness and clear complexion you were once used too. botonics takes a personal approach to every treatment. This helps us ensure we offer the best treatment possible for your individual condition and give you a solution that really works.