Acne is a widespread skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While a variety of factors can cause acne, two of the most common types are bacterial acne and hormonal acne. Bacterial acne is caused by bacteria that infect the pores, while hormone imbalances can trigger hormonal acne. In this article, we will discuss the difference between hormonal acne and bacterial acne and how to know if acne is hormonal or bacterial. Feel free to visit our website first to schedule acne treatment.
What is Bacterial Acne?
Bacterial acne, or acne vulgaris, is the most common form of acne. This type of acne is caused by a bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, which lives on the skin’s surface and can infect the hair follicles. When the hair follicles become infected, they become inflamed and can cause pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Most cases of bacterial acne are diagnosed in teenagers and young adults. Factors that can contribute to the development of bacterial acne include genetics, poor hygiene, and an overproduction of oil by the skin.
What is Hormonal Acne?
Hormonal acne, as the name suggests, is caused by hormonal changes in the body. This type of acne is most common in women and can occur at any age, but it is most common during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Hormonal acne is provoked by an increase in androgens, which are male hormones present in both men and women.
Androgens cause an increase in oil production by the skin, which can clog the hair follicles and lead to the development of acne. Hormonal acne is often characterized by deep, painful cysts that occur around the jawline, chin, and neck.
Bacterial acne vs. hormonal acne: How to recognize the type of acne
Determining whether your acne is hormonal or bacterial can be challenging, as the symptoms of both types of acne can be similar. However, a few key differences can help you determine which type of acne you may have.
Location of Acne
One of the critical differences between hormonal acne and bacterial acne is the location of the acne. Hormonal acne usually occurs around the jawline, chin, and neck, while bacterial acne can occur anywhere on the face.
Type of Acne
Another difference between hormonal and bacterial acne is the type of acne present. Hormonal acne is often characterized by deep, painful cysts that do not come to a head. Bacterial acne, on the other hand, can cause pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Timing of Acne
The timing of acne can also provide clues as to whether your acne is hormonal or bacterial. Hormonal acne tends to occur around the time of menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, while bacterial acne can break out at any time.
Consult with a Dermatologist
If you are still unsure whether your acne is hormonal or bacterial, it is recommended that you consult with a dermatologist. A dermatologist can examine your skin and help determine the cause of your acne. They may also recommend treatments to help clear your skin.
Treatments for Bacterial Acne
If you have bacterial acne, there are a variety of treatments that can help clear your skin. Over-the-counter products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help to reduce inflammation and kill the bacteria that cause acne. In more severe cases, prescription medications such as antibiotics or isotretinoin may be necessary.
In addition to medication, maintaining good hygiene can help reduce bacterial acne’s severity. Washing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser can help to remove excess oil and bacteria from the skin.
Treatments for Hormonal Acne
If you have hormonal acne, several treatment options can help to manage your symptoms. One of the most widespread treatments for hormonal acne is oral contraceptives, which can help to regulate hormone imbalances and decrease the severity of acne. Anti-androgen medications, which block the effects of androgens, may also be prescribed in some cases.
Apart from the medication, there are some lifestyle changes that can help to manage hormonal acne. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress can all help to balance your hormones and relieve acne.
Combination Therapy
In some cases, a combination of treatments may be necessary to manage acne effectively. For example, a dermatologist may recommend using both an oral contraceptive and an antibiotic to treat hormonal acne. Additionally, using a combination of over-the-counter and prescription-strength products may be necessary to manage bacterial acne.
Prevention
While it is not always possible to prevent acne, there are several steps that you can take to lower the risk of developing acne. These include:
- Maintaining good hygiene by washing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser
- Avoiding touching your face with your hands
- Using oil-free and non-comedogenic products on your face
- Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein
- Reducing stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga
Does acne get worse if you pick it?
Yes, picking up acne can make it worse. When you pick at acne, you risk pushing the bacteria deeper into the skin, which can lead to more inflammation and infection. Additionally, picking at acne can cause scarring, which can be difficult to treat.
Picking at acne can also cause it to take longer to heal. When you pick up acne, you may cause the skin to become irritated and inflamed, which can prolong the healing process. This can also lead to the development of new acne lesions.
If you are struggling with acne, resisting the urge to pick at it is important. Instead, focus on maintaining good hygiene, using appropriate acne treatments, and avoiding things that can exacerbate acne, such as touching your face with your hands or using harsh skincare products. If you have concerns about your acne, it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist who can provide personalized advice and treatment options.
Conclusion
Bacterial acne and hormonal acne are two of the most common types of acne. While they can be similar in appearance, they are caused by different factors and require other treatments. By understanding the differences between these types of acne, you can better manage your symptoms and achieve clear, healthy skin. If you are unsure which type of acne you have, it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.