Introduction to Acne

Acne is the most common skin disorder in America, affecting millions of people a year. Mostly affected by acne are teenagers, pregnant women and menopausal women.

The good news about acne is that no matter what kind of acne you may have, it can be treated; whether it is a mild, moderate or severe form either an over the counter remedy or prescription medicine from your dermatologist can rid acne from your face. Here is a quick introduction on how acne forms.

Acne is caused by the over production of hormones in the body that control the production of sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands are glands under the skin that produce oil called sebum. Hormones tell these sebaceous glands to over produce oil or sebum. These glands are part of a unit that includes the sebaceous gland, a hair follicle and a shaft that leads to the pores of the skin. When too much oil is produced it rises to the shaft. If the pores in the skin get clogged, then a bacteria will start to feed off the oil in the shaft and start an infection. This infection in the clogged shaft causes a pimple. The pimple usually has a white head because white blood cells which defend the body against infection are present inside the pimple.

Most acne treatments involve either lowering the hormone in the body, attacking the bacteria or unclogging the pores. These three areas can be extremely effective in controlling the incidence of acne and facial blemishes. If you think you have acne, consult with a physician for proper treatment.