What is acne?
About Acne
The medical definition of acne is "a chronic inflammatory disease of the sebaceous glands in hair follicles." Acne is a multifactorial disease of the upper body sebaceous glands, especially those of the face. Cutaneous Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes) are slow-growing anaerobic bacteria and may be unable to multiply in follicles in which the sebum excretion rate is high as end products of bacterial metabolism escape with the out-flowing sebum. When a follicle becomes blocked, it behaves as a closed culture system from which bacteria cannot escape. From this point on the inflammatory response starts.
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The effects of the hormones testosterone and dihydrotestosterone cause the sebaceous glands to increase oil (sebum) production, and acne develops in those areas of the skin where sebaceous glands are most numerous. This excess oil builds up in the inside the follicle walls and blocks the pores. If the blocked oil is not extracted from the pores, acne bacteria can grow and multiply. As the inflamed hair follicle and glands enlarge, the surrounding skin becomes more inflamed, and cysts may appear. Constant inflammation and presence of pimples, papules, pustules, cysts and painful, deep nodules can cause damage to the cells that create collagen, inducing acne scars. It's important to understand that treating acne in its earlier stages is the best way to prevent long-term scarring.
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Acne can be divided into four grades depending on its appearance and severity. The severity differs from one person to the other. Heredity can play a role in the severity of acne.
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Acne is the most commonly diagnosed and treated skin condition in Canada, affecting an estimated 6 million Canadians. Most acne ( 80%) occurs between ages 12 and 25 years. However, it's common for acne to continue into the late 20s and 30s, with some people being affected into their 50s.
