Module 3: Acne (Acne Vulgaris)

 

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🧠 What Is Acne?

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition where:

• Hair follicles (pores) become blocked with oil and dead skin
• This leads to spots, pimples, and inflammation

👉 It most often appears on:

• Face
• Neck
• Back
• Chest

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🔬 What Causes Acne?

Acne develops due to a combination of factors:

⚙️ Main Causes

• Hormonal changes
  • Puberty
  • Menstrual cycles
  • Pregnancy
• Excess oil (sebum)
  • Overactive skin glands
• Bacteria
  • Cutibacterium acnes grows in blocked pores
• Clogged pores
  • Dead skin cells build up

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⚠️ Risk Factors

• Greasy cosmetics or skin products
• Sweating
• Friction (e.g., helmets, backpacks, masks)
• Family history (genetics)

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🔍 Signs and Symptoms

Acne can appear in different forms:

🟡 Mild Acne

• Whiteheads (closed pores)
• Blackheads (open pores)

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🟠 Moderate Acne

• Papules → small red bumps
• Pustules → pus-filled spots

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🔴 Severe Acne

• Nodules → hard, painful lumps under skin
• Cysts → large, pus-filled lumps

👉 Severe acne may cause scarring.

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💊 Treatment and Management

🧼 Self-Care

• Wash skin gently (not too often)
• Avoid squeezing spots
• Use oil-free products

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🧴 Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments

• Benzoyl peroxide → kills bacteria
• Salicylic acid → clears pores
• Retinoids → reduce blockage and inflammation

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👩‍⚕️ Medical Treatments

A doctor or dermatologist may prescribe:

• Stronger creams or gels
• Antibiotics
• Hormonal treatments
• Isotretinoin (for severe cases)

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⏳ Duration

• Common in teenagers
• Usually lasts 3–5 years
• Can continue into adulthood (30s–40s)

👉 Early treatment can help prevent scarring.

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🧩 Impact on Mental Health

Acne can affect:

• Confidence
• Self-esteem
• Social interaction

👉 Some people may experience:

• Anxiety
• Low mood

This links to your work on mental health awareness and inclusion.

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♿ Inclusion & Awareness Message

• Acne is very common (many people experience it)
• It is not caused by poor hygiene
• People with acne should be treated with:
  • Respect
  • Understanding

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📄 Easy Read Version

Acne is:

• A skin condition
• Causes spots and pimples

Why it happens:

• Oil blocks the skin
• Bacteria grows
• Hormones change

Types of spots:

• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Red spots
• Painful lumps

Treatment:

• Wash gently
• Use creams
• Doctor can help

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🧠 Activity / Reflection

Think about:

• How can skin conditions affect confidence?
• How can we be kind to others about appearance?

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⚠️ Health Note

This information is for education only.
For diagnosis or treatment, speak to a doctor or dermatologist.