What is Acne?

Acne is a dermatological condition that occurs when sebaceous (oil producing glands) in your skin become plugged with dead skin cells and oil. Acne often results in blackheads, whiteheads or pimples, most commonly affecting the face, chest, shoulders and back. This condition is mostly seen among teenagers, but people of all ages can develop acne at any time.

What are the causes of Acne?

There are four main factors that can trigger the development of acne:

• Excess oil
• Hair follicles becoming clogged
• Bacteria
• Hormonal imbalance

Acne is characterized by red, inflamed spots that are typically seen in areas of the body that have high concentrations of sebaceous or oil glands, such as the face, chest, shoulders and upper back. Hormones such as androgens can cause oil glands to become swollen and produce more sebum. Acne can also be triggered by certain medications, diet and stress.

Treatment

Every individual is different and the causes of acne can vary. Your dermatologist will assess the causes and suggest suitable treatment for acne accordingly. It can be topical or a combination of oral medication and topical treatment. Please consult a well-qualified dermatologist.

What is Eczema?

Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a dermatological condition characterized by red and itchy skin. Other symptoms include dry skin, red to brown patches, raised bumps and scaly or cracked skin. It is mostly seen in children, but it can affect people of any age. Eczema is a condition that flares up periodically but can also subside for long periods of time.

What are the causes of Eczema?

Dry skin is most prone to eczema because it is susceptible to irritants, allergens and bacteria. Research has shown that a certain gene variation is responsible for some types of eczema as it affects the skin’s natural defence. A person’s allergies can also cause their skin to become red and itchy. A family history of hay fever, asthma or allergies can cause a person to develop eczema.
Treatment

The causes of eczema vary from person to person. It is best to consult a qualified dermatologist to assess the causes and find the best treatment for your eczema. Treatment can include topical ointments or a combination of oral and topical medication.