Acne Mechanica

Acne Mechanica

Article
Skin Care
Diseases & Conditions
Contributed byLester Fahrner, MD+1 moreJul 13, 2023

What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

  • AM (Acne Mechanica)

What is Acne Mechanica? (Definition/Background Information)

  • Acne is a common skin condition that causes inflamed red spots/lesions to appear on the face, neck, shoulders, and other regions. The condition occurs, when the tiny pilosebaceous follicles become clogged with dead cells and oil
  • Acne Mechanica (AM) is a common condition with acne-like signs and symptoms. It is caused by the constant friction and pressure of an external material (such as tight-fitting clothing or a firm object), which chronically rubs against the skin
  • The skin lesions due to Acne Mechanica can occur anywhere on the body i.e., at the site of chronic or repetitive rubbing. This can be aggravated by the presence of sweaty skin. Acne Mechanica may be seen in a variety of personnel, including athletes who participate in sports
  • The signs and symptoms during the initial stages may not be pronounced. When the source of friction is longstanding, it can result in rough skin followed by small acne-like bumps. Further irritation of the skin can lead to the presence of larger and reddish acne lesions
  • Depending on the severity of the condition, Acne Mechanica may be treated with passive and active measures. These include creams and gels, dermabrasion, and even laser therapy. The prognosis of Acne Mechanica with suitable treatment is generally good

Who gets Acne Mechanica? (Age and Sex Distribution)

  • Acne Mechanica is a fairly common condition seen in a wide age category of individuals. However, teens and young adults are affected the most
  • Both males and females are affected, and no gender preference is noted, even though the source of skin friction may be different in each case
  • There is no known ethnic group or racial preference

What are the Risk Factors for Acne Mechanica? (Predisposing Factors)

Any item/material/article in constant touch with the skin for prolonged periods can be a potential risk factor. Following are some of the risk factors for Acne Mechanica:

  • Athletes using sporting gear (helmets, shoulder pads, abdomen guard, chin straps, etc.)
  • Military personnel who carry heavy uniforms and backpacks
  • Individuals wearing tight-fitting clothing (such as tight-fitting underclothing  or innerwear, synthetic bands, belts, etc.)
  • Musicians holding instruments while playing for long periods; playing stringed instruments
  • Use of any occupational gear that can be a potential source
  • Frequent use of mobile phones against the chin
  • Certain occupations, such as long-distance driving (affecting the skin on the back), and the use of certain equipment can lead to Acne Mechanica

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Acne Mechanica? (Etiology)

  • Acne Mechanica is the formation of a type of acne, which is caused by the effect of constant friction and/or pressure resulting in injury to the skin. In this condition, there is both mechanical stress and heat stress on the skin
  • A constant rubbing, stretching, or abrasion of the offending material/clothing against the skin results in Acne Mechanica
  • Factors, such as sweaty skin and hot-humid weather, can aggravate the skin condition

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Acne Mechanica?

The signs and symptoms of Acne Mechanica are as follows:

  • The acne skin lesions may occur anywhere in the body; at the site of friction
  • Initially, the lesions may not be prominently visible; but with time and longstanding pressure, they can become very prominent
  • Presence of patches of rough skin that leads to small bumps
  • With time, larger and red inflamed lesions may be observed

Note: Acne Mechanica may occur in individuals already having acne skin conditions.

How is Acne Mechanica Diagnosed?

  • Acne Mechanica may be diagnosed through a simple physical examination by the physician or a dermatologist, and medical history evaluation
  • Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed), and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Note: Invasive methods, such as skin biopsy, are typically not required; a diagnosis can be made through a physical examination.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Acne Mechanica?

Some of the complications of Acne Mechanica include:

  • The performance of the individual may be affected; whether at work or in sports
  • Severe skin injury caused by the offending material may result in cosmetic concerns
  • Secondary skin infections
  • Recurrence of the condition with more severe signs and symptoms can occur on further irritation of the skin
  • Side effects of the local/topical (antiseptic, anti-inflammatory) applications

How is Acne Mechanica Treated?

Treatment measures for Acne Mechanica may include the following:

  • Removing the source of constant friction or pressure
  • Use of antiseptic, antibiotic topical applications, anti-inflammatory gels, lotions, and creams. This may include the use of solutions containing:
    • Benzoyl peroxide
    • Salicylic acid
  • Medications, such as antibiotics, for infections
  • Under local anesthesia, a cosmetic procedure called dermabrasion is performed. In this procedure, the raised lumpy acne scars and dark skin spots are abraded (rubbed-off)
  • There are other cosmetic procedures, such as chemical peeling, minor skin surgery (punch excision), and microdermabrasion, which may be used
  • Laser therapy

Taking care of oneself, being clean and hygienic (especially face and hands), avoiding the urge to touch/break the blisters, avoiding oily make-ups and creams, drinking lots of water, etc., are all simple practices that can ensure a faster recovery from Acne Mechanica.

How can Acne Mechanica be Prevented?

Acne Mechanica occurs due to various factors, such as using sports gear, tight-fitting clothes, and specific occupational tasks; it may not be preventable in many cases. However, the following factors may be considered:

  • The use of tight-fitting clothes may be discontinued
  • Discontinuing the use of sports and occupation gear or backpacks, where possible, causing friction or injury to the skin, can help prevent Acne Mechanica from getting worse or recurring
  • In professional athletes, it may not be possible to eliminate or avoid the use of sporting gear. In such cases, the use of soft padding between the equipment and affected skin may help prevent the condition
  • Preventing the formation of severe signs and symptoms through early recognition and treatment of the condition

What is the Prognosis of Acne Mechanica? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Acne Mechanica is generally good with appropriate treatment.

  • However, it may return or the condition may worsen, if the source of constant friction is not removed/addressed
  • Individuals with mild signs and symptoms tend to have better prognoses than those with severe signs and symptoms

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Acne Mechanica:

Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition.

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On the Article

Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
Approved by

Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team
Lester Fahrner, MD picture
Reviewed by

Lester Fahrner, MD

Chief Medical Officer, DoveMed Team

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