Acne is one of the most common of all skin problem. It affects most teenagers to some degree and even many adults. Acne shows up as Whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and, in some people, deep painful bumps that look and feel like boils. Acne most commonly occurs on the face but can also appear on the back, chest, shoulders, and neck.

Am I the only one with acne?

You are definitely not the only one with acne. It is estimated that 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 25 suffer from some degree of acne, so you are not alone. In most people, acne clears up after a few years. But at its worst, acne can cause permanent scarring of the skin. And even when there are few physical marks left, the emotional ones can be devastating.

Why am I getting acne?

Acne usually begins around puberty, when members of both sexes experience an increase in the production of the sex hormones called androgens. These hormones regulate the activity and size of the oil-producing, or sebaceous, glands that reside in the pores, or hair follicles of your skin. The increased production of these hormones causes the oil glands to get bigger in the areas where acne occurs.

The sebaceous glands make an oily substance called sebum. Sebum travels through the hair follicles to the surface of the skin. The lining of the wall of the hair follicles sheds skin cells, which then stick together with the sebum. The follicle gets clogged, plugging up the opening in the surface of the skin. Whiteheads and blackheads are the result of this clogging of the pores. The sebum and cell debris together contribute to the growth of bacteria that live in the pores.

Your own body will naturally attempt to clear the clogged pores by sending in certain specialized cells that invade the follicles to help clean it up. However, in the process, the wall of the follicles may weaken and rupture, emptying the contents of the follicles into the surrounding tissue. When this occurs, swelling or redness can develop around the affected follicles, resulting in the larger bumps or pimples characteristics of acne. These are known as papules and pustules and can sometimes cause scarring.

From the begining until its disappearance, the life cycle of a pimple can take 8 weeks to run its course. And it can take even longer for the darkened spots left by some acne pimples to fade completely.

The aim of acne therapy is to unclog the plugged pores and keep them clear by using effective medicines such as retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin). Sometimes antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide may be prescribed to help control the bacteria that may be growing inside your pores.

Is there anything I can do about my acne?

There are numerous treatment options for people who suffers from acne. How your dermatologist decides to treat your acne will depend on the severity oy your acne.

What kind of cleanser should I use?

Acne is not caused by dirt. Of course, you should cleanse your face, but too much vigorous washing can dry your skin too much, or even aggravate your acne. Cleansing twice a day is sufficient. Your dermatologist may recommend that you use a mild, nonsoap, fragrance-free cleanser (e.g. Cetaphil Gentel Skin Cleanser) that won't dry or irritate your skin.

Should I use a moisturizer?

Since some acne medications can be drying, it may be helpful to use a moisturizer. Your dermatologist may recommend a mild, fragrance-free, nonirritating moisturizer (e.g. Cetaphil moisturising cream) that is noncomedogenic.

Can I prevent my acne from coming back?

The regimen that your dermatologist has prescribed will help you get rid of whatever acne pimples you have now, and it will also work to prevent new ones from appearing. By using your medication correctly and consistently, you can help prevent new acne pimples from forming. If you stop using your medication, or if you onlu "spot-treat" those pimples you can see, new pimples may form, and they may take weeks to clear again. Apply our medication in the same way every day or as recommended by your dermatologist.

Can acne be cured?

There is no instant or immediate cure for acne. But it can be controlled, and scarring may be prevented with proper care and treatment. Again, correct and consistent use of your acne medication and following your dermatologist's instruction will be your best bet.

About the Author: Ahmad Munawwar is a freelancer writer. If you are interested in getting FREE information about skin care and veins simply visit http://SkinCare.YourCancerGuide.com

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