Acne & Acne Scars
IN HOLMDEL, BRICK, & COLTS NECK, NJ
What Is Acne & What Are Acne Scars?
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often manifests as pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads, and can appear on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders. Acne can range from mild to severe and can be influenced by various factors, including hormones, genetics, stress, diet, and certain medications.
Acne scars are the result of the skin’s attempt to heal after the inflammation caused by acne lesions. When the skin’s tissue is damaged, the body produces collagen to repair the damage. However, this repair process can sometimes result in the formation of scars.
What Causes Acne & Acne Scars?
Acne
Excess Oil Production (Sebum)
Sebaceous glands in the skin produce an oily substance called sebum. When these glands produce too much sebum, it can mix with dead skin cells and block hair follicles, leading to the formation of pimples.
Bacteria
The skin is inhabited by bacteria, including Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). When hair follicles become blocked, bacteria can proliferate, leading to inflammation and the formation of inflammatory acne lesions.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or when taking certain medications, can increase sebum production and contribute to acne development.
Inflammation
Inflammation plays a significant role in the development of acne. When hair follicles become blocked and bacteria proliferate, the body’s immune response triggers inflammation, leading to redness, swelling, and the formation of painful acne lesions.
Acne Scars
Inflammation
Inflammatory acne lesions, such as papules, pustules, and cysts, provoke a strong immune response in the body. This immune response triggers inflammation in the affected area, which can damage the surrounding skin tissue and lead to scarring.
Deeper Acne Lesions
Severe or deep acne lesions, such as cysts or nodules, extend deeper into the skin layers. As the body attempts to repair the damage caused by these deep lesions, it may produce excess collagen, leading to the formation of raised scars known as hypertrophic or keloid scars.
Delay in Treatment
Delayed or inadequate treatment of acne lesions can increase the likelihood of scarring. Prompt and effective treatment can help minimize inflammation and prevent the development of scars.
Skin Picking or Squeezing
Picking, squeezing, or popping acne lesions can damage the skin further and increase the risk of scarring. Manipulating acne lesions can disrupt the healing process and lead to the formation of scars.
