Acne: Is it just a young person's problem?

Acne is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of inflammatory lesions, known as papules or pustules, and blackheads or whiteheads. It most frequently appears on the face, but can also affect the chest and back. Although there is no single specific cause that determines why a person suffers from acne, the most common reason is related to a hormonal imbalance.

Dr. Kathy Wu, a dermatology specialist at Serena del Mar Hospital, explains that acne can occur at any stage of life; however, it is more common in adolescents because they are in a stage of development, which is reflected in hormonal changes related to puberty, menstrual periods, pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives, or stress. These changes manifest on the skin as increased oil or sebum production and inflammatory lesions.

Treatment will be prescribed based on an initial assessment, which will determine each patient's skin type, the severity and extent of the lesions, as well as a detailed evaluation to rule out the primary cause of this skin disorder at any age.

Most Common Causes

In addition to hormonal causes, genetic factors also play a role in this condition. It is very common for the parents and grandparents of acne patients to have also suffered from it.

Similarly, dietary habits play a fundamental role. A direct connection has been shown between dairy consumption and the appearance of acne lesions.

Dr. Wu explains that dairy products have a very high inflammatory component because they disproportionately increase insulin levels, up to six times higher than normal. This leads to an increased inflammatory response in the body, causing greater sebum production and, consequently, acne breakouts.

In addition to dairy products, other foods can increase inflammation and severity in acne, such as processed foods, foods high in sugar, and spicy foods.

Other causes include the use of cosmetic products not indicated for the patient's skin type, such as moisturizers and even makeup products that clog pores.

When should you see a dermatologist?

People should visit a dermatologist from an early age, even without experiencing any problems, as prevention is key to avoiding future issues. There are different skin types, and all must be treated correctly. Dry skin needs a skincare routine, as do oily and combination skin types.

Prevention is key. With the help of a dermatology specialist, it's possible to predict which patients are prone to acne based on their medical and genetic history. If a patient knows that their parents had acne or have scars, they are very likely to develop it as well. Once acne has developed, it must be managed at all stages because, even in mild cases, it can progress to moderate or severe acne. In severe cases, treatment becomes much more complex, sometimes requiring prolonged oral medication until the condition is brought under control.