Introduction:
Acne mechanica is a form of acne eruptions. It is triggered by heat and sweat when the body is pressed against heavy protective gear or clothing. This condition arises due to mechanical friction and abrasion. It presents as pimples, which can even progress to papules and pustules. Friction or pressure is believed to be the cause of this skin condition. Acne can develop in some sports-related apparel and accessories. This sort of acne is so frequent that it has its own medical term. It is known as acne mechanica.This sort of acne occurs when the sports equipment or apparel traps heat and sweat on the skin. When the equipment or clothes scrapes against the hot skin, it causes irritation. This inflammation can lead to fresh acne outbreaks if one has acne or have acne-prone skin.
What Is Acne Mechanica?
Acne mechanica is a type of acne which occurs when the body rubs against heavy gear, friction between inner thighs, stretching, pinching, and rubbing of the skin. It can occur irrespective of preexisting acne. It can present as papules and pustules and can progress to cysts and nodules.
Who Is Prone to Acne Mechanica?
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Acne mechanica is found mainly in sportspeople, such as athletes or American football players, or soldiers. It occurs in people where intense physical activity is present and where sweat and clothing are under friction, especially more in people who wear protective gear.
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It also occurs in people who have pressure from prolonged back rest against the bed or seat and also in people who wear prosthetic limbs. It can be found in the chin of players who wear helmets, probably as a result of irritation from chin straps.
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The condition significantly improves when the competitive season is completed. This resolution of the disease indicates that it arises from friction and pressure.
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Although it is not the same condition as acne vulgaris, individuals who already have the disease are more likely to develop acne mechanica.
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People who wear tight equipment, people who are in the same position for long periods of time, such as truck drivers or bed-ridden individuals, or people who have a tendency to rub or squeeze the skin, such as people who suffer from autism spectrum disorder or anxiety, are the common group of individuals who are prone to acne mechanica.
What Are the Clinical Features of Acne Mechanica?
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Acne mechanica can either occur as a result of preexisting acne or can arise independently of an underlying outbreak.
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It is an inflammatory skin lesion like acne vulgaris.
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It is present as papules, pustules, nodules.
1 .Papule: A round bump on the skin. 2. Pustules: Fluid-filled bump. 3. Nodules: Painful lesion which is deep that arises due to severe inflammation.
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Acne mechanica can arise in any part of the body where the body experiences pressure or friction, such as the face, arms, legs, neck, torso, back, buttocks, and inner thighs.
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Although acne mechanica has a similar presentation and is an inflammatory skin lesion, it is not the same as acne vulgaris. Acne vulgaris occurs as a result of underlying hormonal imbalances, while acne mechanica arises solely from mechanical friction. This is established by the resolution of the skin lesion when the friction is removed.
What Are the Causes of Acne Mechanica?
Mechanical friction and pressure, such as wearing certain clothes, sitting or sleeping in a particular position for an extended period of time, can lead to the rise of the condition of acne mechanica.
Common causes include:
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Sports gear such as those worn by American football players and hockey equipment.
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Clothing, for instance, collared shirts.
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Hats, bras, or other accessories.
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Skin-to-skin contact or friction, such as inner thighs and hands.
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Medical equipment such as surgical tape or casts.
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Car seats and other forms of seating.
How to Treat Acne Mechanica?
1. The condition resolves, in most cases, when the underlying cause of friction is removed.
2. Freeing the skin and giving it some breathing room can be highly effective. This by removing bandages or coverings.
3. If the condition warrants additional therapy, certain home remedies can be tried, such as:
- Gentle Soap: Avoid soaps that have fragrances or harsh chemicals. However, the area has to be washed and cleaned one to two times a day.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: It is a common ingredient in treating acne vulgaris. It helps to remove dead skin and control bacteria. It is recommended to start at a lower dose at the start.
- Antibiotics: Topical antibiotics can help reduce bacteria. Antibiotics must be taken only after a doctor’s approval.
- Hydroxy Acids: Alpha hydroxy acids and Beta-hydroxy acids (BHA) can be used, of which salicylic acids are the common BHA used. Always start at a lower dose while starting these ingredients.
- Vitamins: Retinoids and nicotinamide are being increasingly used in skin care. However, retinoids are not to be used by pregnant women.
- In some cases, laser treatment can be done to treat the condition or the scars.
Most cases resolve with simple treatment; however, you can visit a doctor if the condition does not respond to over-the-counter treatment products within six to eight weeks. Also acne online prescription services have made it simpler than ever to access the necessary medications for acne treatment. With just a few clicks, individuals can connect with healthcare professionals through secure online platforms, discuss the acne concerns, and receive personalized treatment plans.
How to Prevent Acne Mechanica?
1. For individuals prone to acne mechanica, certain practices can help to avoid future breakouts, such as:
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Avoid wearing tight clothing and wear accessories that are comfortable such as bras, hats, and belts.
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Remove sweaty or tight equipment as soon as their need is completed. After which the areas should be cleaned.
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Taking small breaks in between activities or changing position. This is in people who are in the same position for long periods of time, such as truck drivers.
2. The following methods can be used:
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Placing clean cotton padding between skin and equipment.
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Wearing moisture-wicking clothes next to the skin helps to reduce friction.
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Avoid tight-fitting clothing during working out.
Conclusion:
Acne mechanica is an acneiform eruption that occurs when the body is subjected to mechanical friction or pressure. It occurs mainly in sportsmen, soldiers, or individuals that wear heavy protective gear. Acne mechanica clears faster than regular acne. This is because acne vulgaris is due to hormonal imbalances, while acne mechanica is due to external factors. Avoiding the cause of friction can help resolve the condition in most cases, or over-the-counter agents can be effective.
