Bacterial Acne Explained & How to Know if you Have it?
What is Acne?
Acne is one of the most common skin problems that is experienced by more than 50 million Americans every year. It is estimated that 85% people experience this condition during the ages of 12 to 24. While this is not a harmful condition, it causes pimples and spots on the face, neck, shoulders, upper arms, and back. The primary cause of this condition can be attributed to the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes. Read this blog to know more about this condition and to find out if you have it.
About Bacterial Acne
Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that is usually chronic in nature. Most commonly, this condition is experience during puberty when the sweat producing glands (sebaceous glands) are activated. Pimples, spots, whiteheads, blackheads, nodules, and cysts are different manifestations of acne. When not treated, it can leave scars on the skin. While it is commonly seen on the face and neck, it is also seen on the chest, upper arms, back, and shoulders. Genetic factors, stress, hot weather, oil-based makeup, and the menstrual cycle can act as triggers for this condition.
The Causes
When the sebaceous glands produce sebum, this oily liquid carries dead skin cells to the skin surface through the follicles. If the follicle gets blocked, then a plug is formed. This plug can be infected by the P. acnes bacteria. The result is inflammation and the formation of a pimple. It must be noted that all strains of this bacteria don’t cause this condition. Hormonal factors can lead to excess sebum production causing acne. Acne can also be caused due to improper diet
Do You Have it?
You need to know the symptoms of bacterial acne. Go through the symptoms so you will know if you have this condition.
- Open pores that are plugged can form blackheads, this is a sign of acne.
- Closed plugged pores would form blackheads on the skin.
- Pimples are the most common symptoms. They are small bumps on the skin that are red in color and known as papules. Pimples are papules that are filled with pus at the tip.
- Nodules can be formed that are large lumps underneath the skin that can be painful.
- Cysts can be formed in severe cases that are lumps under the skin that have pus in them.
If you have any of these symptoms and they recur, then you probably have acne and should see a doctor. It is best to see a dermatologist who specializes in treating bacterial acne. Depending on the severity of symptoms, the right treatment is advised.
Can it Be Treated?
Acne can be an irritating condition that can leave teens feeling self-conscious since it affects their looks. Thankfully, the condition can be treated. Mild symptoms can be treated through OTC remedies like soaps, creams, lotions, and gels to be applied on the affected area. For more severe conditions, antibiotics and corticosteroids are prescribed. Home remedies can also be helpful in treating this condition when it is mild.
Propionibacterium Acnes Explained by Medical Aesthetician Cassandra Bankson
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