Acne vulgaris is a type of acne that affects almost everyone at some point in their lives. It’s a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria. Acne vulgaris is typically characterized by the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and cysts on the face, neck, chest, and back. In this article, we will discuss the types of acne vulgaris, how it differs from other acne, and how to treat it.

TYPES OF ACNE VULGARIS

Acne vulgaris is a broad term that encompasses several different types of acne. These include:

1. Comedonal Acne: Comedonal acne is a non-inflammatory type of acne that is characterized by the presence of blackheads and whiteheads.
2. Inflammatory Acne: Inflammatory acne is a more severe form of acne that is characterized by the presence of papules, pustules, and nodules.
3. Cystic Acne: Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne vulgaris. It’s characterized by the formation of large, painful cysts that can lead to scarring.

HOW ACNE VULGARIS DIFFERS FROM OTHER ACNE?

While it is a type of acne, it differs from other types of acne in several ways. For example:

1. Acne Conglobata: Acne conglobata is a severe form of acne that is characterized by the formation of deep, painful nodules and cysts that can lead to scarring. It typically affects males in their late teens and early twenties.
2. Acne Fulminans: Acne fulminans is a rare and severe form of acne that typically affects adolescent males. It’s characterized by the sudden onset of severe acne, as well as fever and joint pain.
3. Acne Rosacea: Acne rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that typically affects adults over the age of 30. It’s characterized by redness and inflammation on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin.
4. Acne Mechanica: Acne mechanica is a type of acne that is caused by friction and pressure on the skin. It’s often seen in athletes who wear tight-fitting clothing or equipment.

HOW TO TREAT ACNE VULGARIS?

There are several treatment options available for it, including topical medications, oral medications, and medical procedures. Treatment options are typically tailored to the severity of the acne, as well as the patient’s age, sex, and medical history.

Topical medications are applied directly to the skin and include benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and antibiotics. Benzoyl peroxide works by reducing the amount of bacteria on the skin, while retinoids and antibiotics help to unclog the pores and reduce inflammation.

Oral medications for acne vulgaris include antibiotics, hormonal therapy, and isotretinoin (Accutane). Antibiotics work by killing the bacteria that cause acne, while hormonal therapy helps to regulate the production of androgens. Isotretinoin is a powerful medication that’s reserved for severe cases of acne vulgaris. It works by reducing the size of the sebaceous glands and decreasing the amount of sebum produced.

Medical procedures for it include chemical peels, laser therapy, and corticosteroid injections. Chemical peels involve the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which causes the outer layer of skin to peel off. Laser therapy uses a laser to destroy the bacteria that cause acne, while corticosteroid injections help to reduce inflammation.

It’s important to note that while there are many treatment options available for acne vulgaris, there is still no cure for acne. Treatment options canhelp to control the condition and reduce the severity of symptoms, but they may not work for everyone. It’s also important to seek the advice of a dermatologist before starting any new treatment regimen, as some medications can have serious side effects.

It’s important to note that lifestyle changes can also play a role in the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Some tips to help manage acne vulgaris include:

1. Keep your skin clean: Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser to help remove excess oil and bacteria from the skin.
2. Don’t squeeze or pick at pimples: This can lead to scarring and may spread bacteria to other areas of the skin.
3. Avoid using oily or greasy products: These can clog pores and make acne worse.
4. Use sunscreen: Sun exposure can worsen acne and lead to scarring, so it’s important to protect your skin with sunscreen.
5. Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall skin health.

In conclusion, acne vulgaris is a common skin condition that can be frustrating and embarrassing. However, there are many treatment options available that can help to control the condition and reduce the severity of symptoms. Treatment options for it include topical and oral medications, as well as medical procedures. Lifestyle changes, such as keeping the skin clean, avoiding oily products, and eating a healthy diet, can also play a role in its management. If you’re struggling with it, it’s important to seek the advice of a dermatologist who can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that works for you. With the right combination of medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes, it’s possible to achieve clear, healthy skin.