Acne: topical treatment

Clin Dermatol. 2004 Sep-Oct;22(5):398-407. doi: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2004.03.009.

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease, affecting about 70-80% of adolescents and young adults. It is a multifactorial disease of the pilosebaceous unit.(1) The influence of androgens at the onset of adolescence leads to an enlargement of the sebaceous gland and a rise in sebum production. Additional increased proliferation and altered differentiation of the follicular epithelium eventually blocks the pilosebaceous duct, leading to development of the microcomedo as the primary acne lesion. Concomitantly and subsequently, colonization with Propionibacterium acnes increases, followed by induction of inflammatory reactions from bacteria, ductal corneocytes, and sebaceous proinflammatory agents (Fig 1).(2-5)

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acne Vulgaris / drug therapy*
  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Benzoyl Peroxide / administration & dosage
  • Dermatologic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Humans
  • Keratolytic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Retinoids / administration & dosage
  • Sebaceous Glands / drug effects

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Keratolytic Agents
  • Retinoids
  • Benzoyl Peroxide