Acne Vulgaris
Acne vulgaris is the most common type of acne, commonly affecting young people throughout puberty. It is an inflammatory skin disease caused by changes in the pilosebaceous unit (hair follicle and associated sebaceous gland). It is likely due to a genetic predisposition and is probably an abnormal response to testosterone released during puberty.
Acne vulgaris is triggered by excessive oil secretion and dead skin cells, which block hair follicles and the associated pores. Oil secretions build up and allow the skin bacteria Propionibacterium acnes to multiply in it, inflaming the skin to produce a visible lesion. Face, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms are most likely to be affected. Acne vulgaris lesions take many different forms, from outright boils to tiny comedones (blackheads). It may cause scarring in severe cases.
The causes of acne vulgaris are not entirely understood. It is partially hereditary, but is associated closely with hormones, stress, hyperactive sebaceous glands, allergic reactions to normal skin bacteria, skin irritation, use of steroids and halogens. Chloride compounds can also cause chloracne. Excluded as specific causes are diet (except where foods cause an allergic reaction or have other ingredients that do cause acne), dirt, and sex, despite common beliefs to the contrary.
Acne vulgaris may be treated with sulphur, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, vitamin A or retin-A, and light therapy. There is evidence for the efficacy of a few other items, like salicylic acids. Treatments only work for a limited period of time, in most cases; switching treatments after three months may help for serious problems. Gentle exfoliation (preferably chemical, not mechanical) may help. For females, hormone therapy may also work.
Web Resources On Acne Vulgaris
Acne Vulgaris
Acne vulgaris: More than skin deep
Book Resources On Acne VulgarisSauer's Manual of Skin Diseases by John C. Hall
Treatment of Skin Disease: Comprehensive Therapeutic Strategies by Mark G. Lebwohl et al.
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