Chapter 15: Acne (Type 1 Sensitive Skin)

INTRODUCTION

Any discussion of the practice of cosmetic dermatology must include a discussion of acne. Although acne is not typically considered to be a “cosmetic” problem, its highly visible nature makes it a very common complaint among cosmetic patients who are by definition concerned about their appearance. Acne can often have a profound psychological impact on patients. Recently, an evaluation of the psychosocial implications of acne on self-image and quality of life found that it may be equivalent to disorders such as asthma or epilepsy.¹ Acne can be especially troublesome to adults who perceive themselves as too old to have this condition most often associated with adolescence.

Acne vulgaris is a common, multifactorial process involving the pilosebaceous unit. More than 17 million people² and 75% to 95% of all teens³ are affected by some form of acne each year in the United States alone. The majority of patients outside this age range are adult women who typically exhibit a hormonal component to their acne. Approximately 12% of women will have acne until the age of 44, whereas only 3% of men will have acne until the same age.⁴ In many cases, adults are more surprised and upset by acne onset than are teenagers. In all cases, though, early and individually tailored treatment is necessary to achieve a satisfactory cosmetic appearance for the patient. This chapter will include a brief survey of the salient aspects of acne pathophysiology as well as suggestions for treatment and prevention. The psychosocial aspects of acne, or the significant psychological distress that this condition provokes, is beyond the scope of this chapter. It is worth noting, however, that many patients seeking treatment only for acne report substantial anxiety associated with this disease. Regardless of acne severity, acne is also one of the chief concerns of patients with body dysmorphic disorder⁵ (see Chapter 40).

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF ACNE

Comedogenesis and acnegenesis are actually discrete processes, but they are usually associated with one another, with the latter often succeeding the former. Inflammation of the follicular epithelium, which loosens hyperkeratotic material within the follicle creating pustules and papules, characterizes acnegenesis (Fig. 15-1). Comedogenesis is best described as a noninflammatory follicular reaction manifested by a dense compact hyperkeratosis of the follicle, and usually precedes acnegenesis. Because the etiology of such lesions varies from person to person and within individuals also, it is difficult to categorically identify or isolate a basic cause of acne; however, three principal factors have been identified. The primary causal factors in acne work interdependently and are mediated by such important influences as heredity and hormonal activity.

Sebaceous Gland Hyperactivity

Sebum is continuously synthesized by the sebaceous ...