What is Acne Vulgaris?

Acne vulgaris, also known as acne is a skin condition that occurs when overactive oil glands and dead cells clog the skin’s pores resulting in a breakout of pimples. When germs enter the pores, redness, swelling and pus often develops. It can affect anyone but is very common amongst teenagers and young adults but usually disappears when they reach their twenties. However, some adults in their 20’s and 30’s and older can develop acne. Many women often experience an acne outbreak before the onset of their menstrual cycle or while they are pregnant due to hormonal changes, but this goes away when it is completed.

There are different forms of acne and these include whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules or cysts. A whitehead is characterized by a pimple that remains under the surface of the skin. A blackhead can be distinguished by its colour black and is a pimple that rises to the surface of the skin. Papules are small, pink bumps that are sometimes tender while pustules are red at the bottom with a pus-like substance on the top. Nodules are large, painful pimples embedded deep within the skin. Cysts are deep, painful pimples filled with pus that leave scars.

The most common parts of the body that are affected by acne include the forehead, face, neck, chest, shoulders and back. Acne that is left untreated can cause serious blemishes and scarring as well as lead to more psychological issues such as poor self esteem, shyness, social phobia, loneliness, anxiety or depression.