Pimples are common in teenagers and usually present with whiteheads and blackheads, red bumps that sometimes contain pus, and cysts or nodules (in severe cases).
Most often, people think “acne” is the worst form of pimples but the term “acne” is just the medical term for it. There are four main reasons why pimples develop.
First, the pores are clogged by dead skin and debris. Second, there is excessive oil production in the skin. Third, a bacteria called “Propionibacterium acnes” is increased in the skin. And lastly, inflammation which is related to the increase in bacteria.
Other factors are: strong family history of acne, use of products that occlude the skin thereby causing more whiteheads and blackheads, application of some medications (like steroids), hormonal imbalances more common in women leading to irregular menses or even excessive body/facial hair growth (hirsutism). Recently, there has been new evidence stating that diet rich in sugars or carbohydrates (high glycemic index/load) may worsen acne.
Treatment of acne requires the use of one or more drugs (both topical and oral) to control and prevent its recurrence. It must be noted that long periods of treatment are required because acne does not go away immediately. It may take one to three months before improvement may be noticed.
Other procedures such as lasers and light therapy, chemical peels, extraction and injection may also be utilized to hasten the control of acne. Unfortunately, there is no exact preventive measure for acne so a visit to a dermatologist for early treatment is necessary to avoid complications such as scarring. Scarring has been shown to cause low self-esteem which may show as poor school performance or impaired socialization skills.
Why do you need to see a board-certified dermatologist? Over-the-counter medications may not work especially for moderate to severe acne. A prescription strength medication might be appropriate for these cases. Since effective management may require two or more medications, a board-certified dermatologist can create a treatment plan suited to your individual needs. Acne can be a side effect of a drug used to treat another disorder (such as steroids for asthma) or a manifestation of another disease (like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in women) thus a board-certified dermatologist will be able to evaluate you better.
Lastly, scarring is the worst complication of acne and only a board-certified dermatologist knows effective and proven therapies for it.
Dr. Benjamin B. Bince is a Specialist Dermatologist at THE MEDICAL CITY located on Al Diyafah Street, Jumeirah First, beside Enoc Petrol Station, Dubai, UAE.
Contact No. 04-3434265, 055 135 4820 website: www.samatmc.ae
email: [email protected]
By Dr Benjamin B. Bince
