Sebaceous (oil-producing) glands are tiny glands found near the surface of the skin and are affected by our hormones. In acne, the glands are particularly sensitive, even when these hormones are at normal levels.
This causes the glands to produce too much oil (sebum). At the same time, the lining of the pores (the small holes in the skin’s surface) becomes thickened and dead skin cells build up and block the pores. The mixture of the oil and dead skin cells plugging the pores produces blackheads and whiteheads.
Harmless bacteria that live on everyone’s skin, usually cause no problems. However, in acne, the build-up of oil creates an ideal environment for the bacteria to multiply and cause inflammation. This leads to the formation of red, swollen or pus-filled spots (papules, pustules, nodules or cysts).
Tip 1:
Tip 1:
Try not to pick or squeeze your spots as this usually aggravates them and may cause scarring and infection.
Tip 2:
Tip 2:
Cleanse your skin and remove make-up with a gentle cleanser and water, or an oil-free soap substitute. Scrubbing too hard can irritate the skin and make acne worse. Remember blackheads are not due to poor washing.
Tip 3:
Tip 3:
Make-up may help your confidence. Choose products that are labelled ‘non-comedogenic’ (should not cause blackheads or whiteheads) or non-acnegenic (should not cause acne).
Tip 4:
Tip 4:
If your self-confidence has been affected by acne or if you are feeling distressed, it is important to reach out to others for support. This includes friends, family members and support groups. You may also be able to access a counsellor through school, university or work.
Tip 5:
Tip 5:
Let your healthcare professional know if being affected by acne is making you have low moods, feel depressed or anxious. They will be able to speak with you about how you are feeling and help you to form a treatment plan. This may involve help from other specialists, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, if necessary.
Tip 6:
Tip 6:
Expect to use your treatments for at least 12 weeks before you see much improvement. Make sure that you understand how to use them correctly, so you get the maximum benefit.
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the package leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
This medicine is subject to additional monitoring. This will allow quick identification of new safety information. You can help by reporting any side effects you may get. See yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk for how to report side effects.
Depicted people are not actual patients.
