In general acne is not a serious health threat. It is the most common skin disease. There are mild, moderate and severe types of acne. The treatment will differ depending on the severity of the acne. Even though acne may not cause alarming conditions, severe acne can leave permanent scar on the skin. If this happens on the face, it may affect the quality of life. Young men and women are prone to acne, but they are affected in different ways. Men may get more serious types of acne. In young women it may not be that much severe, but can occur in them more frequently, particularly just before the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Older women usually are not affected with occurrence of acne. Rarely acne can occur at the ages between 30 and 40 in women.
Why does severe acne occur
Acne is caused when hair follicles are clogged with sebum and dead skin cells and the bacteria known as P. acnes aggravate this condition. Because of the infection caused by these bacteria, the hair follicles suffer inflammation and the wall of the pores explodes. This condition is countered by the immune system and hence pus formation takes place in the pores and its color changes to red. Acne becomes severe due to attack of bacteria mainly. You should visit a dermatologist as soon as possible if you have a severe type of acne. The dermatologist can give you the best type of treatment and prevent complications that could arise out of this condition.
Deep cysts are a severe type of acne. This appears with swelling and redness. This type of acne can cause severe damage to the skin and leave scar on the spot. A dermatologist can suggest effective treatment for the scars. Scars can be cured in most cases. Oral antibiotics or injections are very effective in combating the symptoms of acne. Usually this kind of treatment is applicable for large cysts in inflamed condition. This treatment reduces swelling, redness and irritation. Faster healing is possible with antibiotics. The prescription medicine Accutane is the last resort when other medicines do not work. This strong medication can prevent scarring and treat severe type of acne very effectively.
If you are a pregnant woman having severe acne, avoid Accutane or consult your doctor before starting this medication. Also, do not take Accutane if you plan to become pregnant. Accutane can cause birth defects in the unborn babies. This medicine has other side effects too, such as itching, dry eyes, mood changes and changes in the blood and liver function. You should use the prescribed medicines for acne exactly as directed by your physician. Your acne and also your general health may worsen if you take over dosage of the medicine prescribed for acne.
Topical treatments are there for acne scars. If they are found to be ineffective, your dermatologist may advise surgery. This procedure can heal acne and remove scarring as well. Some doctors advise laser treatment for reshaping the tissues and eliminate redness. If scars on the face are deep and severe, dermabrasion surgery is carried out to reduce the depth of the scars.