Acne and its Treatment
Acne and its Treatment
Acne is one of the most common skin diseases that affects more than 80% of people between the ages of twelve and 24. This pathology is characterized by an increase in sebum production, blockage of the hair follicle estuaries by keratinized epidermal cells, and the development of inflammation, which leads to the formation of characteristic rashes on the skin.
There are four degrees of severity of acne. In this text, we will examine the manifestations and methods of treatment of acne of the second degree.
How does moderate acne manifest?
- Major signs of grade 2 acne include
- Multiple comedones (10 to 25)
- large number of papules (10-20);
- Single pustules
- severe inflammation;
- Absence of cysts, nodules, and scarring
- Let’s take a closer look at each of these elements.
Comedones are collections of keratin and sebum at the mouth of the hair follicle. They may be open or closed. Open comedones are called "black dots" in everyday life.
Papules are inflammatory nodules without a cavity, usually no more than four millimeters in size.
2nd-degree acne pustules occur singly and are pustules that may arise alone or from papular elements.
2nd degree acne treatments
Topical retinoids such as adapalene and benzoyl peroxide are indeed essential first-line agents. Their combination helps improve skin exfoliation, reduce inflammation, and prevent pores from blocking.
Adapalene, as you noted, is usually applied once a day and shows therapeutic effect in 4-8 weeks, achieving maximum results in about three months. Benzoyl peroxide, which is used twice daily, also plays a key role in the control of acne due to its antimicrobial properties.
Combination drugs containing adapalene and benzoyl peroxide are indeed convenient for patients as they allow simplifying the treatment regimen. The benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin option also exists—this combination may be particularly useful in the presence of inflammatory elements.
Azelaic acid is less commonly used as first-line therapy but may also be effective in certain cases, perhaps for patients with sensitive skin or when needed to fight post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
It is important to remember that acne treatment methods should be selected individually, taking into account the characteristics of the patient's skin and the severity of the disease. Talking to a doctor and regular consultations can help people avoid problems related to self-treatment and the wrong choice of therapy.
It is worth mentioning cosmetic procedures. Phototherapy and cryotherapy may be used during exacerbations of second-degree acne.
Chemical peeling is an effective method to combat acne. Salicylic peeling is recognized as one of the most effective tools, which is confirmed by a study by scientists of the Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education published in 2017.
In addition, mesotherapy, laser treatment and other procedures can be performed within the scope of cosmetology care.
When choosing a beautician, it is extremely important to make sure that the specialist has a medical education. It is recommended to contact specialized clinics of medical cosmetology.
