Acne Treatment

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when tiny holes in the skin, called hair follicles, become blocked with oil and dead skin cells. This can lead to different types of spots, including blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. Acne can range from mild to severe. Some people may only get the occasional spot, while others may experience more widespread and painful breakouts that affect larger areas of the body. Although acne is often linked with teenagers going through puberty, it can affect people of all ages.

There are different types of acne, including whiteheads and blackheads (non-inflammatory), and papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts (inflammatory types). These spots can sometimes be painful and may cause scarring. Beyond the physical symptoms, acne can also impact mental wellbeing, leading to issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression.

Acne has several causes, and what triggers it can vary from person to person. The most common cause is hormonal changes, particularly an increase in androgens (a type of hormone), which can lead to the overproduction of oil (sebum). Too much oil can clog pores, allowing bacteria to grow and cause inflammation. Hormonal fluctuations often occur during puberty, but they can also happen during pregnancy, menstrual cycles, or when starting or stopping certain medications.

Other contributing factors include genetics, stress, certain medications (such as corticosteroids or lithium), and lifestyle habits. Even some skincare products and make-up can worsen acne if they clog the pores. Understanding your triggers can help with prevention and treatment.

Anyone can develop acne, but some people are more likely to experience it than others. You may be more at risk if you:

• Are a teenager or young adult going through hormonal changes
• Have a family history of acne
• Take medications that affect hormone levels or contain steroids
• Are under a lot of stress
• Wear tight clothing or equipment that rubs against your skin
• Live or work in hot and humid environments
• Use thick or oily skincare products that clog pores
• Eat a diet high in sugar or refined carbohydrates

Treating acne can be challenging because it’s often driven by hormones, which means there's no one-size-fits-all cure. However, there are many treatments that can help manage the symptoms and reduce breakouts.

At PharmXtra, we offer a range of proven acne treatments, including topical creams, gels, and tablets. One popular and effective treatment is Tretinoin, which helps to clear up spots, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It works by encouraging skin cell turnover and preventing pores from becoming clogged.

To get the best results, it’s important to follow a regular skincare routine and speak with a healthcare professional about the most suitable treatment for your skin type and the severity of your acne.