ACNE 101: The ultimate test on the development and treatment of acne
Last updated
21st of June 2021
Think you’re an acne expert?
These eight questions will test your knowledge and determine whether you’d a dermatologist in disguise or a newbie to acne and the science behind skincare.
1. What % of people aged 11 to 30 are affected by acne to some extent?
In the UK, the NHS reports that is it around 95%! While it may vary per country, it is clear that the majority of people will experience
2. What is acne categorized as?
Acne is often a long-term health condition and is categorized as a chronic inflammation of the skin.
3. Which of the following is linked to the development of acne?
It is all of the above! Acne is a complex chronic inflammatory condition and there is not one culprit or cause.
4. The bacteria Cutibacterium acnes is often associated with the development of acne. Why?
C. acnes can be present on acne-free skin, but it is the balance of the bacteria within the wider bacterial ecosystem (the microbiome) on our skin that is thought to be the main instigator in the development of acne.
5. Fungal acne is most commonly found on………?
The forehead! Fugnal acne is often characterized by smaller spots with whiteheads on the forehead and temple. It’s a rarer form and caused by a fungus, not bacteria.
6. True or false: Toothpaste is a good way to treat acne?
Toothpaste is an old wives tale -it dries out the skin and can cause more irritation to the skin. Keep the toothpaste on the toothbrush!
7. Which of the below well-known skincare ingredients has been shown to improve acne in clinical trials?
It is Vitamin B3! While there is no one perfect solution for everyone, Vitamin C & B3 have both shown promising results in reducing the growth of acne lesions.
8. Which on the following is NOT a benefit of glycolic acid in treating acne?
Glycolic acid has been shown to dimmish skin marks, prevent the clogging of pores and the acidity of glycolic acid means that it effectively kills the C. acnes bacteria that can trigger acne in some people. Keep in mind, the will also inhibit other bacteria on the skin too and it’s not just as simple as good bacteria and bad bacteria!