Acne is a skin condition common in youth and young adults between the ages of 12 and 24, but there is also a percentage of adults who will experience acne breakouts into their 30s and 40s.

Acne is caused by inflammation of the oily glands in the skin. When the duct of the gland becomes blocked either by layers of skin, fatty secretions or dirt, a mini-cyst or pimple forms.

Just as acne can range from mild to severe, acne treatments also vary, depending on how serious the problem is. Aside from physical symptoms, which can include permanent scarring in severe cases, uncontrolled acne can also significantly affect an individual’s self-esteem and mental health.

What can trigger an acne flareup?

Some of the most common triggers include:

• Cosmetics and hair products that clog pores
• Excessive sweating, damp clothing, or touching your skin repeatedly
• Physical pressure on the skin from tight clothing or sporting equipment
• Over washing the skin with irritating products (tip: look for skin products that are recommended by the Canadian Dermatology Association)
• Medications such as oral corticosteroids, some contraceptives, and anticonvulsants
• Menstrual cycle
• Picking and squeezing acne spots
• Stress

In some cases, it can be helpful to pay attention to your breakouts and ask yourself if anything in your diet or daily routine triggers a breakout or worsens your existing acne.

Is acne caused by poor diet?

While some people will attest to certain foods causing acne (i.e., white bread, breakfast cereals, potatoes, corn, cow’s milk), this is not proven. However, it is always a good idea to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates, and reduce your intake of highly processed foods and sugary drinks.

How to treat different types of acne

Over the counter treatments

Aside from avoiding triggers, you can try an over-the-counter cream or gel that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. These products are designed to clean the area, dry up the oiliness, peel the skin and eliminate the acne bacteria present. But be aware that these products can discolour your clothes, bed sheets, and towels. Always apply a thin amount to the skin and remember, less is more.

Prescription medications

If you do not see any change in your acne after one or two months of using an over-the-counter product, talk to your health care provider about obtaining a referral to a dermatologist. This medical specialist can assess your condition and recommend treatment with prescription medication that may include:

• antibiotics (such as tetracycline and erythromycin) that reduce acne bacteria;
• vitamin A products called retinoids;
• isotretinoin products, such as Accutane® or Clarus®, that are also derived from vitamin A; or
• hormonal agents, including some oral contraceptives.

If you are prescribed one of these medications, your health care provider will talk to you about potential side effects. Individuals taking these drugs should not smoke, as it can increase the potential for adverse effects on the heart and blood vessels.

The information provided in this article is for personal use, reference, and education only. ASEBP does not provide medical advice. Before starting any medication or product, you should always consult with your pharmacist, health care provider, or call Alberta Health Link at 811.