www.womanthismonth.com 111 April 2015 showcase Everyone has had to deal with acne at some point or the other. Bahrain Specialist Hospital’s dermatology specialist Dr Hala Abdou Al-Abetah explains the causes and treatment of this common occurrence. “Acne vulgaris (acne) is the formation of comedones, papules, pustules, nodules and/or cysts as a result of obstruction and inflammation of pilosebaceous units (hair follicles and their accompanying sebaceous gland),” she says. Mostly affecting adolescents, acne can be easily diagnosed by examination. Treatment includes a variety of topical and systemic agents intended to reduce sebum production, bacterial counts and inflammation as well as to normalise keratinisation (organic process by which keratin is deposited in cells). CAUSES The most common trigger is puberty, causing surges in androgen stimulate sebum production and hyperproliferation of keratinocytes (predominant cell type in the outer layer of the skin). Other triggers include hormonal changes that occur with pregnancy or the menstrual cycle, occlusive cosmetics, cleansers, lotions and clothing as well as high humidity and sweating. Acne worsening is also linked to diet and can be caused due to inadequate face washing. Some studies even suggest a possible association with milk products and high glycemic diets. Acne may subside in summer months because of sunlight's antiinflammatory effects. Symptoms and signs include cystic acne, comedones appearing as whiteheads or blackheads and papules and pustules. With the correct diagnosis such as assessment of contributing factors, determining severity and reviewing psychosocial impact, treatment is possible. TREATMENT Comedones can be treated with topical tretinoin, mild inflammatory acne with topical antibiotics and benzoyl peroxide, moderate acne with oral antibiotics, severe acne with oral isotretinoin and cystic acne with intralesional triamcinolone. Call BSH on 17 812-000 for more information. From teenagers to adults, acne is a cause of embarrassment for many but with the correct diagnosis and treatment, it can be brought under control. BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL PROBLEMATIC PIMPLES Dr Hala Abdou Al-Abetah SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Farewell Brunch Noor Hayati, wife of the Malaysian Ambassador, held a farewell reception at her residence for Sukhma, wife of the Indonesian Charge d’affairs. Junghee & Maryam Noor & Sukhma Ratna & Patra Dede & Ika Haniza & Awin Junghee & Tosin Noor, Maryam & Sisca Lakshmi Sisca, Sofia & Rosnan
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