Why teenagers are prone to acne and the common over the counter treatment.

Acne vulgaris is common among teenagers and young adolescents due to surge of hormonal changes in their body. Hormones (circulating androgen) can  make  the sebaceous (oil) gland sensitive to it, leading to over production and secretion of sebum (oil).  Propionibacterium acnes, a normal flora of the pilosebaceous duct
can aggravate the situation by proliferating well due to the presence of excessive sebum making a good medium for them to thrive. The bacteria diffuse into the dermis (second layer of skin) causing inflammation and possible infection, visibly seen as pustule (pus forming lesion). The follicles are enlarge due to increase accumulation of dead keratinocytes partially blocking the duct  forming open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads).

The aim of the treatment is to unblock the pores, prevent formation of new lesions and treat infection. There are factors that need to be considered in choosing for the right treatment. It should be convinient to use, with fewer side effects and effective. Over the counter products are available to treat mild to moderate acne. Product containing Benzoyl peroxide are in a form of cream, gel and lotion preparation. This comes in different concentrations ranging from 2.5% to 10 % and has antibacterial and anticomedonal properties. Try to use the lowest concentration as this can cause irritation (redness) and skin peeling. Reducing the dose of treatment can also minimise the side effects. Wash your hands after treatment and avoid getting in contact with clothes because it can cause bleaching.

Retinoic acid is another form of treatment that helps to loosen and reduce the retention of keratinocytes within the duct thus preventing the formation of comedones. This treatment can cause mild skin irritation and avoiding exposure to sunlight helps. Using the preparation only at  night is also beneficial. Product containing Azelaic acid is also use, it has an antibacterial and anticomedonal properties. Like the above treatment, this can also cause skin irritation and reducing it to once a day application helps in minimising the side effects. Topical antibiotics can be used for mild to moderate acnes especially if it is not responding well with benzoyl peroxides. Sometimes alternating between the two treatment can be effective and prevents resistance to propionibacterium acnes. Combined topical preparations are also available and you can seek the advise of your local pharmacies.

Topical treatment should be tried for at least 3 months to get good results and topical antibiotic should be used alternately to prevent resistance to the bacteria. Ask your health professional for advise if symptoms persist and  systemic treatment might be needed. Avoid using oily/greasy cosmetic product to your face or near it, it can aggravates your acne formation.