What Is Acne?

Acne is commonly known as pimples or zits. It is a skin condition that commonly afflicts people during their teenage years. Acne pre-dominantly affects the face. But it can also show up on the back, neck, shoulders and chest. While most common in teenagers it can appear on adults as well. Neither race nor gender is indicative of acne as it affects male and female and all races the same.

Acne Vulgaris, “acne”, can be diagnosed by the lesions that form on the skin. These lesions can take several different forms: blackheads, whiteheads and cysts. Cysts are formed when the pore becomes completely blocked. Acne is most common during puberty because at this time the body is creating an excess of sebum, an oily substance designed to keep the hair and skin soft and lubricated. During puberty the production of sebum is greatly increased which can cause the skin to feel oily and clog pores.

During puberty there is also an increase in the production of follicle cells. Dead follicle cells mixed with sebum can build up and cause white heads. This mix of oil and dead cells is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria which will cause the swelling and redness that is associated with pimples.

Acne affects about 85% of all people sometime from the age of 12-24. Around 25% of these people will have acne on their back and/or neck as well as the face. The acne will be severe enough to cause about 40% of these people to want to have medical treatment.

Acne is most common on the face, especially on the forehead, nose and chin. The back is the next most common area of affliction followed by the neck, chest and shoulders.

Most people will have outgrown their acne problems by the time they reach their twenty’s, yet some people will continue to suffer from acne even as adults. In some cases people will not have any acne issues until they are adults. This happens more often in men than women.

Acne can have severe emotional and psychological repercussions. Since it affects their appearance it also affects self image and self esteem. Teenagers are especially vulnerable to this attack on their self-confidence. It can even trigger withdrawal from social situations and depression, as well as feelings of anger and frustration.

Fortunately in this day and age there are many treatments that can help with acne. The most important thing that can be done to help alleviate acne is to keep the skin as clean and oil free as possible. Washing the problem areas several times a day with soap and water, especially after any activity that triggers perspiration, is usually adequate. There are also many medications available by prescription and over the counter to help with acne control.

If the acne is bad enough you can consult a dermatologist who can prescribe medications for the skin as well as antibiotics to help fight the bacteria. They can also offer advise on life style and diet changes that might help with the condition.

Before engaging in any treatment, it is advisable that you contact your doctor.

Cynthia Hammons is a veteran educator, a mother of a teenage daughter, as well as an entrepreneur. Her company is associated with superb natural health care products.