Acne Isn't Just for Adolescents! How to Manage Acne

Acne is a condition where the hair follicles and sebaceous glands become inflamed. Its formal name is "acne vulgaris." It typically appears as red bumps on the face, chest, and back.

Causes of Acne

The main causes of acne include increased sebum production, clogged pores due to keratinization, and the overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes). First, increased hormonal secretion during puberty or excessive stress can lead to an increase in sebum production. In women, imbalances between male and female hormones make acne more likely to occur.

Clogged pores follow. The skin naturally renews itself through a process called "turnover." However, when turnover is disrupted, dead skin cells accumulate and block the pore opening. When sebum builds up in clogged pores, the acne-causing bacteria (present on everyone’s skin) multiply, leading to inflammation.

Types of Acne

Acne can be categorized into two main types: "non-inflammatory acne" and "inflammatory acne."

Non-inflammatory Acne includes "microcomedones" (microscopic blockages that are invisible) and "comedones" (visible whiteheads and blackheads) that begin to block the pores with sebum.

Inflammatory Acne occurs when comedones worsen and become inflamed, resulting in "red acne." When red acne becomes more severe, it develops into "yellow acne," where the inflammation intensifies, and yellow pus forms.

How to Manage Acne

If you develop acne, focus on consuming nutrients beneficial for the skin, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals, and avoid overeating. Aim to eat a vegetable-rich, Japanese-style diet, and choose boiled or grilled proteins over fried foods. Excessive alcohol consumption and spicy foods should also be limited.

Adjusting lifestyle habits can help, too. Wash your face twice a day, using a gentle cleanser to create a lather and cleanse without scrubbing harshly. Even if you’re tired, ensure makeup is removed with a cleanser, and follow up with moisturizer. Try to keep makeup light to minimize skin stress.

It’s also crucial to protect acne-prone skin from UV rays, as sun exposure can worsen acne. Use a low-irritation sunscreen and shield your skin with hats or umbrellas for extra UV protection.

Sleep is essential. Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Avoid using your phone or gaming devices in bed, and relax by bathing an hour before bedtime to promote restful sleep. Adding topical acne medication can further enhance treatment effectiveness.