Medical Info: Acne vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disorder affecting at least 85 percent of adolescents and young adults. This disorder is often dismissed by the medical community and general population as a superficial affliction associated with growing up, however scientific evidence has illustrated that the effects of this condition are far more than skin deep. This brief review of relevant scientific literature discusses the potential effect of acne beyond its dermatological manifestations. These include effects on psychiatric health, psychological well-being, and quality of life.

Medical info:

Common acne is the most prevalent skin disorder seen by dermatologists, about one in six visits to dermatologists are for acne. Most of these cases are AV (common acne). Acne vulgaris usually develops after onset of puberty, and thus affects teenagers disproportionately. Various forms of acne, however, can affect people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Acne can cause disfigurement and permanent scarring, thus having an adverse effect on psychological development. Embarrassment, social phobia and depression are linked to acne.

Severe acne, manifested clinically by nodules and cysts, affects more men than women in the 18–28 age group (35% vs. 23%). More women than men are affected from ages 29–49 years. Milder forms of acne occur mostly in women.

In addition to poor diet or poor hygiene, factors beyond a person's control have significant impact.
Age, heredity, stress, hormonal changes and onset of puberty can trigger the changes leading to an outbreak.

The treatment of acne vulgaris in a culture which craves a quick fix has been, predictably, with medication. Because these medications are expensive and not altogether safe, no treatment regime should be undertaken without weighing all the factors. Willingness to leave off junk food, psychological impact, commitment to therapy, and cost of treatment should all be considered. The best sort of doctor to see for treatment which will result in long term improvement of both the acne condition and health in general are those who practice holistic medicine. The entire patient must be looked at and dealt with if a satisfactory outcome is to be expected. The use of dietary supplements should not be overlooked and is best addressed in partnership with a doctor who practices nutritional medicine.