Acne

The main causes and basic mechanisms of acne are increased oil (sebum) production in the skin, hair follicles clogged with dead skin cells, the proliferation of Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) bacteria naturally found in the skin flora, and inflammation in the acne area.

The process is summarized as follows:

• Sebum production increases due to hormones (mostly androgens).
• The follicle canal becomes clogged with dead keratinocytes and sebum, forming microcomedones.
• In the clogged pore, the C. acnes bacteria multiply and the inflammatory process is triggered there.
• The immune system's response results in red, swollen, sometimes purulent lesions and deeper cystic acne.
• Epigenetic factors, DNA methylation, and certain genetic predispositions may influence tissue sensitivity and disease severity.
• Diet (high glycemic index foods, some dairy products), stress, certain medications (corticosteroids, lithium, testosterone), mechanical contact (friction, pressure), and environmental/lifestyle factors such as smoking may aggravate the clinical course.

The primary triggers of acne are hormones, genetic predisposition, skin structure, environmental factors, and bacterial interactions with the immune system. Acne can occur in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory subtypes.

While the terms "pimple" and "acne" are related, they are not exactly the same thing; "acne" (acne vulgaris) is the general name for a skin condition and encompasses various types of lesions (blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts). "Pimple" is the common name for the single lesions, whether inflammatory or non-inflammatory, that are the most common within acne. Medically, every pimple is an acne lesion; however, acne is not just acne; it can lead to other, deeper, and persistent lesions. In other words, it's accurate to say that "acne is a disease, while acne is a single symptom of the disease."

To reduce acne:

1. Gently cleanse your skin twice a day. Avoid over-washing to avoid irritating the skin.
2. Use products containing benzoyl peroxide.
3. Unclog pores with salicylic acid cleansers.
   These basic tips will help you get acne under control quickly and safely.

A single pimple usually heals spontaneously within 7–14 days , even if left untreated; in mild cases, this period can be shortened to 3–7 days with appropriate cleansing and topical treatment. Deep, cystic, or large pimples, however, can take 2–3 weeks, sometimes even longer, despite treatment, and healing times can vary. Depending on the treatment, a significant improvement within 1–2 weeks reflects the normal acne cycle.

A pimple usually doesn't completely disappear overnight, but applying benzoyl peroxide , salicylic acid , or hydrocortisone cream to the spot in the evening can quickly reduce inflammation and redness. Additionally, applying an ice pack for a few minutes can soothe swelling; an adhesive acne patch applied to clean skin can also speed healing overnight. For a large, inflamed pimple, dermatologists may occasionally administer a cortisone injection, which can significantly reduce the appearance of the pimple within a few hours; however, attempting this at home is not recommended. All of these techniques can cause significant shrinkage and soothing overnight, but it may take several days for the pimple to completely disappear.

To help with teenage acne, gently wash your skin daily. Avoid acne-causing products and rubbing. Cleansers or creams containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help dry out acne. Avoid picking or squeezing pimples. If the pimples persist, consult a professional.

Foods that trigger acne include sugary, processed carbohydrates, milk and dairy products, fried foods, chocolate, and ready-made and processed foods.

• Processed carbohydrates: White bread, pasta, rice, white-flour desserts, and sugary foods frequently cause acne. High-glycemic index foods spike insulin levels and trigger sebum production.
• Sugary foods and drinks: Sodas, fruit juices, honey, candies, and syrup-form sweeteners can cause acne on the skin.
• Milk and dairy products: Cow's milk, fatty cheese, ice cream, and dairy desserts in particular can increase the risk of acne. Numerous scientific studies have shown that dairy products trigger acne by increasing the hormone IGF-1.
• Fried Foods: French fries, chips and other fried foods make the skin oilier and invite acne.
• Chocolate: Especially sweet and milk chocolate types can play a role in acne formation.
• Processed meat products: Prepared meats such as salami, sausage, and fast food can increase the formation of acne on the skin.
• Salted nuts and roasted peanuts: Excessive consumption may increase oil production and the risk of acne.

Swollen pimples without tips (blind, inflamed pimples) usually occur when inflammation settles under the skin and should not be squeezed directly; instead, they can be healed with warm compresses, appropriate acne creams, and proper skin care.

Suggestions for a Swollen Pimple Without a Tip

• Warm compress: A clean cloth or cotton ball can be soaked in hot water and applied to the swollen pimple for 10-15 minutes. This helps bring the inflammation closer to the surface and relieves pain. This can be repeated 2-4 times a day.
• Cold compress: An ice compress is sometimes recommended to reduce swelling and pain. However, if the swelling is severe, heat can be applied first, followed by cold.
• Anti-inflammatory creams and gels: Regular use of pharmacy products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or zinc can speed healing. It's important to choose the right one for your skin type and use it with a doctor's advice.
• Natural methods: Low dilution tea tree oil or aloe vera gel can be used topically; these have a reducing inflammation and healing effect.
• Skin cleansing: It is necessary to cleanse the area around the pimple twice a day with a gentle cleanser and support it with a non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) moisturizer.
• Nutrition and water: Avoiding sugary, processed foods and drinking plenty of water can speed healing; foods rich in omega-3s may have an inflammation-reducing effect.
• Squeezing and picking at the pimple should be avoided; otherwise, the inflammation may spread and the risk of scarring increases.

• Vitamin A deficiency: It's critical for skin cell renewal and keeping pores open. A deficiency can cause skin to become oilier and more prone to acne.
• Vitamin D deficiency: The risk of acne increases with a weakened immune system and increased inflammation in the skin. Vitamin D plays a protective role against skin infection.
• Zinc deficiency: Causes oily skin and increased inflammation. Zinc is effective in skin defense and healing.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency (or excess): An imbalance in B12 levels can trigger acne, especially in some individuals. While excess can lead to acne in some people, deficiency can also affect the immune system.
• Iron deficiency: Although it is not directly acne-causing, it can slow down the rate of skin healing and exacerbate existing skin problems.
• Vitamin B6 and B5: In case of imbalance, the skin's barrier function may be impaired and the tendency to acne may increase.

In other words, deficiencies in vitamins A, D, B12 and zinc are the most common triggers for acne; for skin health, it is important to maintain a balanced diet and identify deficiencies and address them with supplements.

Yes, drinking water can help reduce acne; as adequate water consumption maintains the skin's moisture balance, facilitates the elimination of toxins and plays a role in preventing acne by balancing excess oil production.

Effects of Water Consumption on Skin

• It keeps the skin moisturized and prevents the formation of new acne by reducing oil production caused by dryness.
• It helps eliminate toxins from the body, which helps cleanse the skin and prevents clogged pores.
• It strengthens the immune system and reduces inflammation in the skin by having a positive effect on pH and oil balance.
• Regular water consumption, especially when supported by other care methods, makes the skin look more elastic, clear and vibrant.
  
  Scientific Research
• Meeting the daily recommended amount of water increases skin moisture, smoothness and overall health, while reducing the risk of acne in both women and men.
• Ideally, it is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water (about 2 liters) a day.

In short, drinking water regularly and maintaining a healthy diet in general reduces the risk of acne and supports skin health; while it is not a definitive solution on its own, it is a significant benefit.

Sudden increase in acne is usually caused by hormonal changes, stress, unhealthy diet, insufficient sleep, disruption of skin cleansing, consumption of excessively fatty or sugary foods, and some vitamin deficiencies.

Main Causes of Sudden Increase in Acne

• Hormonal changes: An increase in acne is common during periods of hormonal change, such as puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders, and polycystic ovaries.
• Stress: Increased levels of the cortisol hormone increase oil production and cause sudden acne.
• Unhealthy diet: Especially foods with a high glycemic index, fatty and sugary foods, and excess processed foods can increase the amount of acne.
• Dehydration: Drinking less water dehydrates the skin, increasing oil production and making it easier for pores to become clogged.
• Skin contact and hygiene: Frequently touching the face, using dirty bedding and pillows, and transferring bacteria to the skin with phones or hands can cause a sudden increase in acne.
• Lack of sleep: Insufficient sleep increases stress levels and oil production.
• Vitamin deficiencies: Vitamin A deficiency, in particular, can slow down skin regeneration and cause acne breakouts.
• Smoking: Smoking can increase acne by altering sebum production and composition.

In short, sudden acne increases are mostly due to lifestyle and hormonal changes; this situation often occurs when nutrition, stress management and skin care are not taken into account.