We’ve all heard about acne, the troublesome skin condition that often plagues teenagers. But what truly triggers acne, and how can it be addressed?

What Triggers Acne?

Acne can manifest when a hair follicle becomes obstructed by a combination of oil and deceased skin cells. It predominantly surfaces on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders because these regions possess the highest concentration of oil glands.

When a blockage forms, it can result in various blemishes. The obstruction may protrude, leading to the formation of whiteheads. If the blockage is exposed to the air, it darkens and turns into a blackhead. In cases where the follicle becomes infected by bacteria, it becomes inflamed, giving rise to a pimple. Deeper, more severe blockages within the follicle can lead to subcutaneous lumps known as cysts. These diverse forms of skin imperfections are collectively referred to as acne.

Some things that can trigger acne include:

• Hormonal changes: Hormone changes during puberty or pregnancy can cause oil glands to enlarge and make more oil.
• Medications: Medications such as corticosteroids, testosterone or lithium can cause acne
• Diet: Some studies have shown that carbohydrate-rich foods such as bread and chips may worsen acne
• Stress: Stress might make acne worse
  
  

Is it because my skin is dirty?

Dirty skin is not the root cause of acne; this is, in fact, a misconception. Another widespread acne myth asserts that the consumption of chocolate and oily foods leads to acne.

When will I grow out of my acne?

While acne is commonly linked to adolescence, it can affect individuals of any age.

Fluctuations in hormone levels frequently trigger outbreaks, which is why women may encounter acne during their menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or when initiating or discontinuing birth control medication.

Will my acne leave scars?

Some people experience scarring or pigmentation changes after acne has healed. This may appear as pitted skin, thick scars, or darker/lighter skin.

What is the best treatment for acne?

Your treatment plan will be determined by various factors, which encompass your age, the specific type of acne you’re dealing with, and the severity of your condition.

There exists a range of over-the-counter acne remedies that you can experiment with; however, if they prove ineffective, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. Your doctor will evaluate your acne and decide if an alternative treatment is warranted.

Various acne treatment options are available, and your healthcare provider can assist in determining the most suitable one for you:

• Topical Medication: These medications are administered to the surface of your skin and are commonly available in the form of creams, gels, or lotions. They encompass retinoids, antibiotics, azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and dapsone.
• Oral Medications: Typically, these medications are in the form of oral tablets. They include antibiotics, oral contraceptives, anti-androgen agents, and isotretinoin.
• Therapies: Additional therapeutic approaches can be beneficial and are sometimes used in conjunction with other medications. These encompass light therapy, chemical peels, drainage/extraction, and steroid injections.

Can someone at Teston Medical help me?

Of course! Schedule a doctor’s appointment at our walk in facility in Vaughan and one of our team members will be happy to help. Our licensed Canadian physicians can help diagnose and can also provide prescriptions.

If additional testing or referral to a dermatologist is required, we can still help! Our doctors can help find a nearby skin facility to help carry out any required testing or refer you to a local specialist.