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One of the biggest misconceptions teens hear is that they won’t deal with acne once they reach adulthood. However, as many adults can attest, while acne may diminish over time, it can still plague individuals at any age unless they are fortunate enough to have perfectly balanced skin and hormones. To complicate matters further, acne comes in various forms, including subclinical and comedonal acne, but the most prevalent is acne vulgaris.
Despite its fearsome name, acne vulgaris is far from alarming. In fact, the term “vulgaris” simply means “common” in Latin. So if a doctor diagnoses you with acne vulgaris, they are just indicating that you have a typical breakout caused by a mix of hormones, bacteria, and oil. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), around 50 million Americans experience some form of common acne annually, including children as young as eight and adults well past their teenage years. Acne knows no age boundaries. While adults may not experience severe breakouts as frequently, pimples remain common, especially on the face, shoulders, back, and yes, even your buttocks (that pesky butt pimple is completely normal).
Although acne vulgaris is the most widespread form, there are more serious types of acne worth noting. If you have an occasional pimple around your menstrual cycle, it’s likely not a cause for concern. However, if you’re facing persistent breakouts, cysts, blackheads, milia, or blemishes in unusual areas like your hands, feet, stomach, or pubic region, it may indicate a different type of acne or another skin issue entirely.
Don’t fret; most of the time, you can identify if you have acne vulgaris and treat it with over-the-counter creams. If you suspect that you are facing a more stubborn form of acne or another skin condition, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist.
What Sets Acne Apart from Acne Vulgaris?
Acne is a broad term that encompasses pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and other blemishes. Acne vulgaris, however, refers specifically to the most common type of acne. Acne can also vary in severity: as outlined by VeryWell Health, it can be mild (fewer than 20 pimples), moderate (more than 20, including blackheads and whiteheads), or severe (extensive pimples accompanied by nodules and cysts).
Although acne is not dangerous, regardless of its severity, moderate and severe cases may result in scarring. Additionally, acne can affect mental health, making it wise to seek treatment if ongoing breakouts impact you or your child’s self-esteem.
Recognizing Acne Vulgaris
Identifying acne vulgaris is relatively straightforward. It appears as papules (swollen, red bumps), whiteheads (blemishes with a white center), or blackheads (similar to whiteheads but with a dark center). These lesions typically emerge on the face, neck, chest, or buttocks. If you notice pimples in other areas, it could indicate a different skin condition that warrants a discussion with a dermatologist.
How to Treat Acne Vulgaris
Everyone’s experience with acne is unique, so treatment may involve some trial and error. The usual suspects behind breakouts include hormonal changes, bacteria, and excess oil. Sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum, which, along with dead skin cells, can clog pores and lead to acne. Generally, as we age, the hormones that increase sebum production start to decline, resulting in fewer breakouts. However, hormonal fluctuations, especially for women during their menstrual cycles, can lead to occasional breakouts even after puberty (and men can also experience pimples later in life).
Treatment often depends on the severity of acne vulgaris, but a combination of the following methods tends to be effective:
- Salicylic Acid: Found in many over-the-counter acne treatments, it helps unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: This ingredient also appears in OTC products and targets bacteria responsible for acne.
- Retinoids: These are effective for treating blackheads and whiteheads and are available in OTC formulations.
- Topical Antibiotics: For moderate to severe cases, dermatologists may prescribe these creams.
- Oral Antibiotics: Typically reserved for moderate to severe cases, these are prescribed alongside topical treatments for a limited time.
Acne is a common nuisance, and while managing it can be frustrating, remember you’re definitely not alone in your battle against breakouts.
Home Remedies for Acne Vulgaris
If you’re interested in natural remedies for easing acne vulgaris, consider these options. However, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist before making changes to your skincare routine.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Mix with water, apply to your skin, and rinse off. The citric acid in apple cider vinegar can help combat acne.
- Honey and Cinnamon Mask: This combination is excellent for reducing inflammation. After applying, rinse your face with warm water.
Preventing Acne Vulgaris
While acne vulgaris can be annoying, there are several strategies to reduce flare-ups:
- Keep your hair away from your face and wash it regularly.
- Avoid picking or popping your pimples.
- Cleanse your face twice daily.
- Always remove makeup before sleeping.
- Limit sugary and high-carb foods.
- Use sunscreen outdoors to protect your skin from damage and excess oil production.
- Opt for oil-free skincare products, as oil can clog pores and contribute to breakouts.
- Avoid over-exfoliation, whether physical or chemical, as it can irritate the skin and lead to increased oil production.
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Summary
Acne vulgaris, despite its intimidating name, is a common form of acne that affects millions. It can appear at any age, often caused by a mix of hormones, bacteria, and oil. While it’s typically not dangerous, it can impact self-esteem and mental health. Treatment options range from over-the-counter solutions to prescriptions from dermatologists, depending on severity. Home remedies and preventive measures can also help manage and reduce breakouts.