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 Acne

Acne is a common skin disorder that involves the skin's oil producing glands and hair follicles.  Acne is caused by the build-up of debris, including dead skin cells, in the hair follicle causing obstruction of the oil flow and bacteria.  This build-up results in the formation of "whiteheads" and "blackheads" more commonly known as acne.

The aggravating factors that may increase the occurrence of acne include:

• Stress, including difficulties in relationships, fatigue, poor eating habits, lack of exercise and/or illness.
• Hormones that stimulate oil production, which is why acne begins at puberty.
• Friction/sweating, especially the combination, can lead to acne.  Hand-to-face contact is a common source of friction.
• Cosmetics/skin products, mainly oil based products, that can clog pores.
• Medicines such as steroids, birth control pills, some asthma medications, anti-epilepsy medicines, INH, and lithium.
• Nutritional supplements that have iodine.

The treatment of acne includes the following:

• Wash the skin twice a day and avoid excessive scrubbing.  Use a mild soap like Neutrogena, Purpose, or Dove.
• Use water-based or dermatological safe cosmetics only.
• DO NOT pick or squeeze acne lesions.
• Use over-the-counter medication containing benzoyl peroxide.
• If acne fails to improve, seek a medical consult.

Self Care Tips:

• Keep your skin clean.  Using a clean washcloth every time, work the soap into your skin gently for a minute or two and rinse well.
• Leave your skin alone!  Don't squeeze, scratch, or poke at pimples. They can get infected and leave scars.
• Use over-the-counter cream or lotion that has benzoyl peroxide.
• Wash after you exercise or sweat.
• Wash your hair at least twice a week and keep it off your face.
• For men:  Wrap a warm towel around your face before you shave.  This will make your bear softer.  Always shave the way the hair grows.
• Avoid too much time in the sun.  Don't use a sun lamp.
• Use only water-based makeup.  Don't use greasy or oily creams, lotions, or makeup.

When self-care is not enough, a health care provider can prescribe topical ointments and/or antibiotics.  In cases of cystic acne or acne resistant to conventional treatment, an evaluation by a dermatologist is advisable and Accutane may be considered.  No matter what treatments are recommended, remember to continue proper skin care.

Resource Link:

• Acne.Net, a comprehensive online acne information resource  http://www.derm-infonet.com/acnenet

For more information contact the UNC Student Health Center at 351-2412.