Feline chin acne is a poorly understood disorder of follicular keratinization, which refers to the overproduction of keratin, a protein found in the outer layer of skin. When this excess keratin is trapped in the hair follicle, comedones or \u201cblackheads\u201d form. These comedones may become infected with bacteria and form pustules or \u201cpimples\u201d. Feline acne is similar to the acne that humans get.<\/p>\n
While the exact mechanism is not understood, the abnormal follicular keratinization is thought to be related to a primary seborrheic disease such as seborrhea oleosa, to poor grooming or cleaning, or to excessive sebum production (the natural oily \u201cmoisturizer\u201d produced by the skin). The end result is that the hair follicle becomes \u201cplugged\u201d and an infection with its accompanying clinical signs often results.<\/p>\n
The most common sign associated with this type of acne is the \u201cdirty\u201d appearance of the chin. Some people refer to this condition as \u201cdirty chin syndrome\u201d for that reason. The lesions, pustules and comedones, may appear on the chin, lower lip and\/or the upper lip. The chin often appears dark and flaky. Careful observation will reveal the \u201cblackheads\u201d and infected follicles. Chronic cases may have hard, crusty lesions that are sore when touched. Both male and female cats can develop chin acne.<\/p>\n
Treatment often involves improved hygiene. Cleaning with benzoyl peroxide facial preparations is often advised. Antiseborrheic shampoos and clipping of the hair are often recommended. Antibiotics, fatty acid supplements or oral isotretinoin may be used in more severe or chronic cases.\u00a0 In a significant number of cats, there is an association between using colored plastic food dishes and chin acne.\u00a0 In these cats, if the food dishes are changed to ceramic, glass, or stainless steel, the condition resolves.\u00a0 Most cases respond well to improved hygiene. Owners should closely follow their veterinarian\u2019s instructions to ensure success. Some cases will often benefit from medications and more aggressive treatments.<\/p>\n
What is chin acne? Feline chin acne is a poorly understood disorder of follicular keratinization, which refers to the overproduction of keratin, a protein found in the outer layer of skin. When this excess keratin is trapped in the hair follicle, comedones or \u201cblackheads\u201d form. These comedones may become infected with bacteria and form pustules […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[31],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-350","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-pet-health-wellness"],"yoast_head":"\n