Acne

Information about the symptoms and causes of acne vulgaris

Acne, otherwise known as acne vulgaris, is a skin condition caused by bacteria that, although frequently associated with young people, can in truth affect men and women of any age. Known for its inflammatory properties, this skin condition appears when the sebaceous glands become inflamed and turn into spots. As a result, breakouts will follow, commonly developing on an individual's face, back or chest.

Fortunately, acne can be treated and managed effectively in the long term with the use of medications that have been clinically proven to vastly improve the appearance of skin of acne sufferers. We at OnlineClinic offer a variety of effective acne treatments that can be quickly and securely ordered today.

Dr Hilary JonesOnlineClinic Medical Advisor

"Acne does not have to be a lifetime problem. The right treatment can improve the appearance of your skin."

What is acne?

Acne (acne vulgaris) is referred to under a number of different terms, including zits, pimples, spots and blemishes. Acne is a common skin condition that normally affects teenagers during the early stages of puberty, reaching its peak between the ages of 17 and 19. However, it can also affect adult men and women well into their 40s. This condition can be triggered by genetics, stress, weather and certain medications and can range from mild bouts (i.e. the occasional zit) to severe bouts, which may be painful and leave scarring. Acne can affect various areas of the body, including the face, back and chest and is a very visible condition. As result of this, acne breakouts can damage an individual's self-confidence. However, all forms of acne; including whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules and cysts (cystic acne) can be treated through the use clinically proven acne treatments, such as Minocin, Oxytetracycline and Dianette.

Acne causes

Acne or acne vulgaris is a bacterial skin condition, which appears as inflamed spots. Androgens, which are male sex hormones, are believed to be the cause of acne, as they increase the sebum production in the sebaceous glands of the skin. Although these glands are a natural substance, which work to help keep the skin protected, too much sebum can block the pores, causing the skin to become greasy and acne to form. The fact that too much sebum product is caused by hormonal changes is why it is believed that the condition frequently affects young people (experiencing puberty) and some women during their menstrual cycle, as these are periods when natural hormonal changes occur. Although most sufferers will stop experiencing acne once puberty is over, for others suffering with the skin condition may continue well into their later years.

Though considered rare, other causes of acne include Cushing's syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Medications like some oral contraceptive pills, steroid creams and specific cosmetics can also affect the skin's condition and cause acne.

Acne symptoms

Acne, or acne vulgaris, is recognised by specific characteristics, such as:

Inflamed spots, which commonly develop on the face, back or chest and are red and sensitive to the touch.

Pimples, bumps and nodules appearing on the face, as well as other infected areas.

Oily skin caused by overactive sebaceous glands.

Predominance of blackheads or whiteheads.

Preventing acne

Although there is no decisive way to prevent the occurrence of acne vulgaris, there are a number of methods that can help to reduce a person's chances of developing the condition.

Avoiding excessively touching the face is also advised to greatly reduce the chances of acne developing.

Using makeup or facial products that are noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic are also recommended as such products are designed to prevent pores from clogging.

Removing makeup before sleeping is also recommended and will help lessen the chances of acne developing.

Treating acne

There are a number of different acne treatments available, with the decision on the choice of treatment decided by the how severe the condition is.

Prescription medications

For treating more severe types of acne, prescription treatments have proven to be more beneficial. Such treatments come in the form of creams, lotions, oral medications like the popular contraceptive Dianette, and the antibiotics Minocin and Oxytetcycline.

Over the counter medication

Over the counter topical treatments such as creams, lotions, soaps and gels contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxyl acids or sulphur are initially chosen to treat milder forms of acne. For more severe forms of acne prescription treatments are usually required. As such, prescription medication in the form of lotions, creams oral antibiotics, oral contraceptives or oral retinoids are usually recommended.

Prescription treatments like Minocin, Oxytetracycline and Dianette are effective acne treatments that have proven to treat acne vulgaris. All treatments are available to buy at OnlineClinic after a quick online consultation.

Buying treatment

Acne (acne vulgaris) is a highly common condition that can be successfully managed and treated by using effective treatment. Whether it is mild acne or serious acne, these flare-ups can be successfully managed in the long term by using clinically proven medication. The treatments we can offer at OnlineClinic include Minocin capsules, Oxytetracycline tablets and Dianette tablets. These medications can be ordered quickly and securely online after completing a simple online consultation. For more information, please visit the product pages for each of the acne treatments we have available.