Skin and Respiratory Health - Acne Vulgaris Flashcards
Q: What is Acne Vulgaris?
A: Acne vulgaris is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by excess sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, bacterial colonization by Cutibacterium acnes, and inflammation, leading to the development of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts.
Q: Which areas of the body are most affected by acne vulgaris?
A: Acne vulgaris predominantly affects the face, chest, and back, as these areas contain dense sebaceous follicles.
Q: What are the main types of lesions seen in acne vulgaris?
A: The main lesions in acne vulgaris include comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), dome-shaped papules, and inflammatory cysts, which can lead to scarring.
Q: What psychological effects can acne vulgaris cause?
A: Acne vulgaris can lead to low self-esteem and is associated with anxiety and depression, impacting an individual’s emotional well-being.
Q: What are the hormonal causes of acne vulgaris?
A: Hormonal causes include increased levels of androgens, particularly free testosterone and its metabolite DHT, which stimulate sebaceous gland activity, follicular hyperkeratinization, and acne formation. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and conditions like PCOS are common triggers.
Q: How does insulin resistance contribute to acne vulgaris?
A: Insulin resistance increases androgen production and enhances keratinocyte proliferation, which leads to increased sebum production and acne development. Hyperinsulinemia also affects glycemic control, further promoting acne formation.
Q: What role does diet play in acne vulgaris?
A: Diet plays a significant role in acne pathogenesis, particularly the intake of dairy, high GI foods, processed foods, and excess omega-6 fatty acids. A Western diet high in these foods has been linked to acne, while a nutrient-rich, low-GI diet may reduce its severity.
Q: How does dairy consumption contribute to acne?
A: Dairy increases insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), which activates the mTORC1 pathway, leading to sebaceous gland hyperproliferation, increased sebum production, and acne development. It also raises circulating levels of insulin, which has similar effects to high GI foods.
Q: What is the role of vitamin D in acne management?
A: Vitamin D regulates keratinocyte and sebocyte metabolism, helps to balance sebum production, and has anti-comedogenic properties. It also supports glycemic control by improving cellular sensitivity to insulin, potentially reducing acne severity.
Q: How does zinc help in managing acne?
A: Zinc modulates immune response, reduces inflammation, inhibits 5α-reductase (which reduces DHT levels), and has antimicrobial activity against Cutibacterium acnes, all of which help reduce acne lesions and inflammation.
Q: What are some natural dietary exclusions for acne vulgaris?
A: Exclude dairy, trans fats, high saturated fats, red meat, sugar, refined foods, high GI foods, and alcohol, as these can exacerbate acne.
Q: What dietary inclusions are recommended for acne vulgaris?
A: Include low GI fruits and vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids (found in flaxseeds, walnuts, and fish), and anti-inflammatory foods like green tea, turmeric, and berries. Ensure good hydration to support detoxification.
Q: How does vitamin A contribute to acne management?
A: Vitamin A helps reduce sebum production, supports collagen synthesis, and improves skin barrier integrity. It also inhibits follicular hyperkeratosis and has immune-boosting properties that aid in preventing Cutibacterium acnes growth.
Q: How can herbal support help with acne?
A: Herbs like saw palmetto and stinging nettle root inhibit 5α-reductase, reducing DHT levels. Cleavers support lymphatic function, aiding in detoxification. Milk thistle, rosemary, green tea, and turmeric support liver detoxification and reduce inflammation.
Q: What are tissue salts and how do they help with acne?
A: Tissue salts like Kali. sulph., Calc. sulph., Ferrum phos., and Silica support skin health by promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and addressing pigmentation or cystic acne.
Q: What role does exercise play in acne management?
A: Regular exercise helps reduce insulin and IGF-1 levels, improving overall skin health. It also promotes better circulation, detoxification, and reduces stress, which can trigger acne flare-ups.
Q: What essential oils can be used for acne vulgaris?
A: Lavender essential oil has antiseptic properties and can be applied directly to comedones. It also helps reduce anxiety, a common trigger for acne.
Q: How can contrast hydrotherapy help acne vulgaris?
A: Contrast hydrotherapy, which alternates between hot and cold water, stimulates lymphatic detoxification, helping to remove toxins and improve skin health. Hot water opens pores, while cold water closes them, aiding in the filtration of waste.
Q: What psychological conditions are associated with acne vulgaris?
A: Acne vulgaris is linked to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression due to its impact on appearance, especially in adolescence and young adulthood.
