Acne (the most common form of which is known as acne vulgaris, or "common acne") is a disease characterized by inflammation of the skin.
The pores of the skin become clogged which causes pimples, which often become infected and contain collections of pus.
Acne Vulgaris: A: Cystic acne on the face, B: Subsiding tropical acne of trunc, C: Extensive acne on chest and shoulders.
The inflammation is caused by changes in the skin structures surrounding hair follicles and their associated sebaceous (oil) glands.
Acne manifests itself in lesions or pimples (commonly known as zits).
Acne can occur on the face, neck, chest and back.
Acne is common around puberty (80% of all teenagers get acne) and tends to disappear as the suffers reach their twenties. However, in some individuals acne can continue for decades.
In common acne, the sebaceous (oil-producing) glands secrete too much oil and this is accompanied by the plugging of skin pores by dead skin cells.
Sometimes after the acne lesions go away, unattractive scars can remain.
Simple Preventative Measures Against Acne
Keep the skin cleansed on a daily basis. This will keep the pores unclogged and avoid more serious types of infection. Topical creams (e.g. benzoyl peroxide) are available at most pharmacies (either available over-the-counter or available on prescription).
Avoid creams and make-up which clog pores. Instead, use non-comedogenic creams and make-up (ones which do not clog the pores).
Further Preventative Measures
Further measures to control acne are available. You should obtain your doctor's advice before using these.
Antibiotics (e.g. tetracycline) can also be used, topically or orally, to control acne. See your doctor for more details.
Hormonal treatments (e.g. certain birth control tablets) can help fight acne.
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