Acne

• Acne: Types of Lesions:

- Whiteheads: Plugged hair follicles that stay beneath the skin, producing a white bump. - Blackheads: Plugged follicles that reach the skin's surface, appearing black due to air discoloration of sebum. - Papules: Small, pink bumps that can be tender to the touch. - Pustules: Papules topped with white or yellow pus-filled lesions, often red at the base. - Nodules: Large, painful solid lesions lodged deep within the skin. - Cysts: Deep, painful, pus-filled lesions .

Acne vulgaris treatment has seen significant advancements with updated guidelines and innovative approaches. Here's a breakdown of the latest insights and treatment options: Latest Guidelines The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) released updated clinical guidelines for acne treatment in January 2024, featuring 18 evidence-based recommendations. These guidelines emphasize the importance of evidence-based treatments, including ¹ ² ³:

• Topical treatments: Benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, salicylic acid, and azelaic acid are recommended for mild to moderate acne.
• Oral treatments: Doxycycline, minocycline, sarecycline, and isotretinoin are suggested for more severe cases or those with significant psychological burden.

Treatment Options

1. Topical retinoids: Effective for mild to moderate acne, these medications help prevent clogged pores.
2. Benzoyl peroxide: Kills bacteria that cause acne and reduces inflammation.
3. Oral antibiotics: Doxycycline and minocycline are commonly prescribed for moderate to severe acne.
4. Hormonal treatments: Combined oral contraceptives and spironolactone can help regulate hormonal imbalances contributing to acne.
5. Isotretinoin: A powerful oral medication for severe acne that's resistant to other treatments.
6. Laser and light therapies: Provide additional benefits for patients with persistent acne or scarring ² ³ ⁴.

Emerging Trends Recent studies focus on targeting inflammation and developing novel therapeutic modalities. Some promising areas of research include ⁴ ²:

• Repurposing existing treatments: Exploring new uses for established medications to combat acne.
• Nanotechnology-based advances: Investigating the potential of nanoparticles to improve acne treatment.
• Herbal medications: Some herbal remedies show promise in reducing acne severity.

Key Takeaways

• Acne vulgaris requires a tailored approach to treatment, considering individual skin types and needs.
• Topical treatments are effective for mild to moderate acne, while systemic treatments are necessary for more severe cases.
• Procedural therapies, such as laser and light treatments, can provide additional benefits for scarring and resistant acne ⁵.

Acne can affect the eyes, often through a condition called ocular rosacea, or sometimes as a result of other acne-related skin conditions. Ocular rosacea can cause redness, burning, itching, or watering of the eyes, along with a gritty feeling. Other eye symptoms linked to acne include dry eyes, blurred vision, and light sensitivity.

Author

Paddy Kalish OD, JD and B.Arch Author and Blogger