A chronic inflammatory skin condition common in adolescence, but occasionally occurring or intermittently throughout life. It is characterized by skin eruptions on the face, chest and back and is more common in males than in females. Acne vulgaris is the formation of comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts as a result of obstruction and inflammation of pilosebaceous units (hair follicles and their accompanying sebaceous gland). 

CAUSES 

The most common trigger is

Puberty

During puberty, surges in androgen stimulate sebum production and hyperproliferation of keratinocytes.

Other triggers include

• Hormonal changes that occur with pregnancy or the menstrual cycle
• Occlusive cosmetics, cleansers, lotions, and clothing
• High humidity and sweating

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS  

• Blackheads (black spots the size of a pinhead)
• Whiteheads (white spots similar to blackheads)
• Pustules (small pus-filled lesions)
• Redness and inflammation around eruptions
• If acne is severe, cysts (larger, firm swellings in the skin), and abscesses (swollen, inflamed, tender area of infection containing pus)

Risk increases with

• Exposure to extremely hot or cold temperatures
• Stress
• Oily skin
• Endocrine disorders
• Use of drugs, such as cortisone, male hormones, or oral contraceptives
• Family history of acne
• Some cosmetics

HOMOEOPATHIC REMEDIES 

Psorinum: It is indicated for acne of all types – acne simplex, acne pustular and acne indurata. It is equally effective for acne in oily skin where the overactive sebaceous glands secrete excess sebum leaving the skin constantly greasy. Here Psorinum helps decrease oil secretion and treat acne. It is used in cases of conditions that worsen from eating sweets, chocolates, meat, and fatty food. It also treats intolerably itchy acne and that which worsens during the winter.

Hepar sulph: Pustular acne refers to acne that contains pus. The pus may sometimes be stained with blood. Where pus or bloodstained pus oozes out of pimples, Hepar sulph will be effective. The pimples may be extremely painful here. 

Kali bromatum: Kali bromatum works wonders in treating acne located on the face, chest, and shoulders. Marked itching may attend the acne. The acne may be simplex, pustular or indurated. Kali bromatum is also prescribed where acne leaves ugly scars. Bluish-red pimples are a sure shot sign that Kali bromatum will work.

Naturm mur: Natrum mur will show best results in itchy acne on oily cheeks. Prickling pain in the acne is complained of. Natrum mur is also prescribed for acne in girls who are anemic.

Sulphur: Sulphur is advised for people with dirty, unhealthy looking skin covered in acne that itches a lot. Scratching worsens the itching. The itching gets aggravated during the night. Warmth, too, worsens the itching. Burning sensation may also be observed.