Acne is a condition that affects the skin. It affects around 85% of people at sometime between age 12 and 25 years.
The most common question we get is "What causes acne?" Acne is the inflammation that is caused when pore on the skin (hair folicles and oil glands) get blocked with dead skin cells and skin oil (sebum).
As you can see in the picture to the left there are a few different types of spots. The most common are open comedos or blackheads, and closed comedos oe whiteheads. The black colour associated with blackheads is usually from the breakdown of oil and dead skin in air (oxidation), and isn't due to a lack of personal hygine. In fact scrubbing them too hard can cause more problems.
Acne can sometimes have red, raised bumps that can be tender. These are called papules. Pimples are papules that have developed pus, and are called pustules.
In more long lasting and severe acne large, hard, that are painful can develop. These are called nosules and need a Doctor's attention.
If you have questions about acne you can call us or drop in to CookStPharmacy and one of our Pharmacists will be happy to listen to you and help you make the best treatment decision for you.