Adolescence Section: Acne, Nocturnal Emissions, and the Dangers of Jeans

20. Why do teenagers get acne?

Acne, medically known as acne vulgaris, is a chronic inflammatory disease of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands, and is one of the most common skin diseases. Its pathogenesis involves numerous physiological processes, including excessive sebum secretion, abnormal keratinization of the epithelial cells at the hair follicle opening, hormonal imbalances, and the proliferation of Propionibacterium acnes within the hair follicle. Its causes can be categorized as follows:

(1) Diet, lifestyle, and psychology: Animal fats and their processed products, cream, or fried foods can promote excessive sebum secretion from the sebaceous glands. Spicy, stimulating seasonings and alcohol can also promote microvascular dilation, stimulating excessive sebum secretion and inducing acne. Staying up late frequently stimulates sebaceous gland secretion, and neglecting facial hygiene are external factors that induce acne. Excessive stress from studies or work, a state of tension, and irritability can also increase sebum secretion.

(2) Androgens: Excessive androgen secretion is an important cause of acne. Androgens can not only promote sebum secretion, but also cause hyperkeratosis of the hair follicle duct, blockage of pores, and poor sebum excretion.

(3) Microorganisms Current research has found that the main microorganisms causing acne are Propionibacterium acnes in the hair follicle. Propionibacterium acnes in the hair follicle can release a variety of enzymes, which can break down triglycerides in sebum, stimulate the hair follicle wall and cause inflammation, and at the same time stimulate the proliferation and hyperkeratosis of the hair follicle cortex duct, leading to poor sebum excretion.

(4) Other factors include genetics, air pollutants and dust in the environment, and certain medications, such as oral contraceptives, weight loss drugs, and menstrual-inducing drugs. Constipation, habitual diarrhea, excessive stomach acid, ulcers, etc., can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body and the inability to excrete waste normally, which in turn can cause acne around the lips, a reflex area of ​​the digestive system.

**21. Will acne leave scars?**

Acne is often temporary, but the scars it leaves behind can stay with you for life, even affecting your self-confidence, work, and friendships. Statistics show that 95% of people who have had acne will have scars on their face, but not everyone's appearance will be significantly affected.

Under a microscope, fibrotic tissue can be seen in scarred skin. Such skin has poor elasticity and texture, and is very prone to aging. Therefore, it is necessary to take early measures to be vigilant about conditions that are more likely to develop scars.

What conditions make someone more prone to scarring?

(1) Inflammatory acne: In any inflammatory acne, inflammatory cells are involved in the destruction and clearance process. During this process, normal tissue is replaced by scar tissue, and the scar may proliferate or shrink, so the resulting scar will appear raised or depressed.

(2) Improper external pressure When pimples are subjected to external pressure, the already enlarged hair follicles and their contents may be discharged through the hair follicle opening, but it is more likely to cause the hair follicles to rupture. Pimples that were not originally inflamed may become inflamed, red and swollen, or even suppurate, thus generating severe scars.

(3) Failure to treat acne in a timely and effective manner: The primary task for acne in an inflamed state is to reduce the inflammation and control the damage to the tissue. If it cannot be treated in a timely and effective manner, it will often result in scars that cannot be removed in the future.

(4) Inappropriate treatment methods Some acne scars do not come from acne itself, but from inappropriate treatment methods. For example, some doctors like to add topical steroids while treating acne. Although steroids can quickly eliminate redness and swelling in the acute phase of acne scars, overuse may lead to skin lack of nutrition and atrophy. Some doctors or beauticians like to squeeze pimples for others, and improper techniques can also cause inflammation or pitting.

**22. How to properly care for acne?**

Acne is a chronic inflammatory disease of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands, but it can often be cured with proper care. However, neglecting care can easily worsen acne symptoms.

(1) Skin Cleansing: People with oily skin can use a neutral to slightly alkaline soap in the morning or before bed, or choose a facial cleanser suitable for oily skin. Washing your face 2-3 times a day is ideal. Use warm water, as cold water doesn't easily remove oil, and hot water can promote sebum secretion. Massage your face thoroughly to remove the day's dirt and oil. Avoid using harsh soaps; sulfur soap can be beneficial for acne. Avoid using oily or powdery cosmetics, or ointments and creams containing corticosteroids.

(2) Maintain a regular sleep schedule. Acne patients must ensure 8 hours of sufficient sleep every day. Staying up late will affect the patient's metabolism, thereby aggravating acne symptoms.

(3) In addition to regular exercise, acne care should also include developing a daily exercise habit. Exercise can promote metabolism and is helpful in the prevention and treatment of acne.

(4) Eat a light diet. Acne patients should not eat spicy and irritating foods, fried foods, drink less coffee and alcohol, eat more vegetables and fruits, and keep their bowels regular.