Acne is a dermatological condition characterized by inflammation of the sebaceous glands, responsible for producing sebum, the substance that keeps skin hydrated and protected. When these glands produce too much sebum and pores become clogged, it creates a favorable environment for Cutibacterium acnes proliferation, a bacterium that triggers inflammation. This process leads to the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, and, in more severe cases, nodules and cysts. Although commonly associated with adolescence, acne can occur at any age, with different causes and manifestations.
Depending on the prevalence of lesion types, there are four types of acne:
mild or severe comedonal (with prevalence of comedones on forehead and nose in the first case, on the entire face and back in the second);papulo-pustular in all its variants (the most frequent form with prevalence of more or less inflamed papules and pustules);nodulo-cystic and cystic (<10% of cases, with nodules and subcutaneous cysts that can cause scarring);conglobate (the most severe form of acne, with nodulo-cystic lesions. Persists until age 30, with formation of severe scarring).
To these types of acne is added another form, acne rosacea, a dermatosis caused by a parasitic mite that occurs more frequently in women and fair-skinned individuals (hence the popular name of the disorder, also known as "Celtic curse"). This manifests with evident facial redness (especially cheeks and nose, sometimes even the periocular area), telangiectasias and seborrheic skin, papules, pustules, and itching. This condition can be corrected with IPL, the laser treatment for acne.
Preventing acne requires a consistent, gentle approach to skincare and lifestyle habits. Avoid over-cleansing or using harsh scrubs that can irritate the skin and trigger more oil production. Choose non-comedogenic products and resist the urge to pick or squeeze blemishes, which can lead to scarring and bacterial spread. Maintain a balanced diet, limiting dairy and high-glycemic foods that may contribute to inflammation. Keep hair products away from the face, change pillowcases regularly, and manage stress through adequate sleep and relaxation techniques. At Image Milano, our dermatology specialists can help you develop a personalized prevention routine using medical-grade products and regenerative treatments that support your skin's natural healing process, reducing the likelihood of future breakouts while maintaining optimal skin health.
Addressing acne correctly requires personalized treatment. Proper skincare is fundamental: cleansing skin with specific products, avoiding overly aggressive cleansers, and using active ingredients like salicylic acid, retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide can make a difference. In milder cases, a correct routine may be sufficient to improve skin appearance. In more severe cases, dermatological treatments like topical or oral antibiotics, isotretinoin (in more resistant cases), and procedures like chemical peels, laser, or LED light therapy may be necessary to reduce inflammation and improve post-acne scarring. The most common mistake is relying on DIY remedies or aggressive treatments that, instead of solving the problem, can worsen it. Consulting a dermatologist allows identifying the most effective strategy to achieve healthy and balanced skin.
