Acne or pimples are a common problem of young individual characterised by various types of lesions like small papules, comedones, pustules and rarely nodules. If not taken care of properly these can result in bad scarring which can be very difficult to treat

Acne is a variable disorder with some people getting very severe form and few don’t even get any acne. The factors that determine this variable nature of the disorder is not known. But it has been observed that children of parents suffering from severe form of acne also get sever forms.

What causes acne?

Acne is not a disease it is a condition caused by obstruction of duct of the sebaceous glands (oil glands) present in the skin. The important cause for this is the increased secretion of sebum from these glands under hormonal surge seen during the teens, there is also abnormality in the lining of these ducts leading to obstruction, the obstructed gland with its pent up secretion is colonized by bacteria (Propionobacterium) leading to inflammation. Also sometimes the entire gland ruptures leading to more severe forms.

What is the role of food in acne?

There has always been a belief that oily foods, spicy foods, chocolates cause acne. But, the role of food in causation of acne is controversial. Till now it was believed that food has no role in acne but recently few studies have been published suggesting role of food in acne. So, the best thing to do would be that if you think there is something that worsens your acne then stop eating it.

What exacerbates acne?

Stress either mental or physical has a definite role in exacerbation of acne. Even worrying about acne it self can worsen your acne. Also in a female around the time of menstrual period there is likely to be sight worsening of acne. Applying oily moisturizers, oil-based make up’s, over the counter creams containing corticosteroids can definitely worsen your acne. Sometimes a prolonged exposure to sunlight can also worsen your acne.

What are the types of acne?

Acne is a polymorphic disorder with the patients presenting with variable manifestations ranging from open comedones (black heads) to large puss filled nodules. The treatment of acne basically depends on the type of lesions the person is having.