Alton Street Surgery Patient Information Leaflet

Acne Vulgaris

What is acne vulgaris?
Acne (its usual name) is a common skin condition characterised by whiteheads, blackheads and pimples, often affecting the face but also found on other parts of the body.

Who is affected by acne?

Acne is commonest in the teenage years, starting between the ages of 10 and 13 and lasting for five to ten years. In most people it subsides spontaneously by the early twenties, but, in a few, it may last into their thirties and even forties.

What causes acne?

Acne is caused by a number of factors. At puberty, an increase in hormones stimulates enlargement of the sebaceous glands - tiny glands in the skin which produce skin oils known as sebum. The enlarged glands increase their production of sebum, which can lead to blockage of the ducts that lead from the gland to the surface of the skin. Normal skin bacteria grow inside this blocked duct in greater numbers than usual.

What are the signs and symptoms?

There are different types of acne spots that may be present at the same time. Blocked glands lead to blackheads and whiteheads, sometimes called comedones. Inflammation caused by bacteria produces red lumps called papules, which may be tender. These may develop into yellow spots, called pustules. Large spots can result in scarring. Some dark-skinned people find that their spots develop a dark pigmentation, which may take many months to fade.

Spots usually occur on the face, particularly around the hairline or other oily areas. They can also occur on the back, chest, shoulders, upper arms and upper legs.

What is the treatment?

There are many over-the-counter remedies available for acne. Look for those containing benzoyl peroxide, which kills skin bacteria. The treatment works by preventing future spots rather than healing those that are already present, so time must be allowed for it to work. If necessary, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics and, if your acne is really severe, you may be referred to a dermatologist for further treatment.

How can I help myself?

· Try not to squeeze spots and blackheads. It is easy to introduce more infection.

• Wash your face and other affected areas no more than twice a day, using simple soap and water
• Look for non-greasy cosmetics, which do not cause any further blockage of the pores.
• Seek help from your doctor if your skin does not seem to be improving. There are many effective treatments available.

Useful sources of information:
Acne Support Group, 1st Floor, Howard House, The Runway, South Ruislip Middlesex HA4 6SE
Telephone: 020 8841 8400 Fax: 020 8845 5424
Website: http://www.stopspots.org

British Association of Dermatologists, 19 Fitzroy Square, London W1P 5HQ
Telephone: 020 7383 0266
Website: http://www.bad.org.uk/index.cfm

This patient information leaflet has been adapted from an original published by Clinnix Pro, Synigence PLC