What Is Acne?

Acne (暗瘡), also known as pimples, is a very common skin condition. It typically begins during puberty, and for many people, it gradually disappears in their 20s, though some may experience it for longer.

Why Does Acne Occur?

Acne has many causes, primarily including:

• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal shifts during puberty stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to increased oil production.
• Clogged Pores: Thickening of the keratin layer in pores prevents oil from escaping, causing blockages.
• Propionibacterium Acnes (痤瘡細菌): This bacterium thrives in clogged pores, triggering an inflammatory response.
• Medications: Certain drugs, contraceptive injections, or pills may contribute to acne.
• Diet: Foods with a high glycemic index may worsen acne.
• Hormonal Issues: In some women, acne may be linked to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

How Is Acne Treated?

• Mild to Moderate Acne:
  • Topical Creams: Doctors may prescribe antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide (過氧化苯甲醯), or topical retinoids (維他命A酸). These creams serve different purposes, such as killing bacteria, exfoliating, or reducing inflammation.
• Severe Acne:
  • Oral Antibiotics: Doctors may prescribe oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline (多西環素)) to be used alongside topical treatments.
  • Oral Isotretinoin: Oral isotretinoin (口服A酸) is highly effective for severe cystic acne (囊腫型暗瘡) or nodular acne (結節型暗瘡).

What to Know About Oral Isotretinoin?

• Significant Effectiveness: Oral isotretinoin is very effective for severe acne, but it requires a full course of treatment to see results.
• Side Effects: Oral isotretinoin may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them.
• Testing: Before starting treatment, blood tests are needed to confirm normal liver function and lipid levels.
• Contraindications: Patients who are pregnant, have liver dysfunction, hypervitaminosis A, or high blood lipid levels should not use oral isotretinoin.
• Initial Worsening: In some cases, acne may worsen at the start of oral isotretinoin treatment, but it improves with continued use.

Summary

Acne can be annoying, but with the right treatment approach, you can overcome it! Be sure to consult a doctor and follow their advice—don’t use medications on your own!