We talk a lot of acne, including its aesthetic consequences among adolescents and treatments, but much less how to make the buttons of acne.Why are there red spots, pimples, black white? Explanations in the heart of the skin.

Acne, the sebaceous gland in the black button

Among teenagers, the acne is related to the hormonal surge of puberty. The skin contains sebaceous glands are saying, that produce an oily substance called sebum. These sebaceous glands are located in the dermis, the middle layer of the skin and are attached to hair follicles (which contain a hair). As the sebum is secreted on the surface of the skin by a canal which terminates in a pore.Lightly lubricate the skin, its role is to protect it from external aggressions (wind, cold, sun, pollution ...). This is also the oil that is responsible for the softness of the skin. And finally, the sebum is excreted along with dead skin cells (keratinocytes) and bacteria. The sebaceous glands are sensitive to sex hormones, puberty is accompanied by an increased secretion of sebum. In excess, it is more difficult to evacuate and can overload the excretory duct.Meanwhile, on the surface, the pores can become clogged by the accumulation of dead cells and bacteria, forming the "black button" or "blackhead."

Acne, the white button microcyst

If the black button continues to prevent the sebum to come out, it accumulates under the skin and gives it a "slush" to the touch, this is called a "microcysts". However, this accumulation of sebum is an environment for bacterial growth, which cause inflammation. Viewed from the outside, this inflammation results in red bumps called papules. These papules may become very large and sometimes form beneath the skin of painful balls (nodule or cyst).Inflammation can also cause pus which, when seen on the surface, forming the white button or pustule. According to the people and their skin type, the buttons are rather predominantly black buttons type, nodular or inflammatory, even if they often coexist.

What to do against acne?

Acne is in most cases mild and disappears quickly naturally. As for the moderate to severe acne that is crippling the lives of teenagers (and some adults), it is imperative to consult to find a suitable treatment. Hygiene measures and topical treatments are generally prescribed as first line. But if they prove insufficient, there is a very effective drug (Roaccutane), which must weigh the benefits and disadvantages in each case.