What is Acne ?

Acne is caused by the excessive build-up of sebum - the waxy substance produced by glands adjacent to the follicles which keeps the skin lubricated. As a result of this build-up, the oil glands and ducts beneath the skin becomes clogged and
inflamed, forming angry-looking spot(s).

While the spot remains covered it is called a whitehead; if it opens up, exposure of the sebum to oxygen causes chemical changes, the spot darkens as a result and is popularly referred to as a blackhead. Sometimes, one or
more of these spots may expand under pressure to form what is known as a cyst or abscess.

Mild cases are characterised by spots, whiteheads and blackheads appearing on the face, with a fresh crop of spots emerging as the older ones heal. In more severe cases, ance spreads to the skin on the chest, back and sometimes even the buttocks.

A number of factors can aggravate or trigger acne, the most important of which is the sudden increase in the production of male sex hormones around the time of puberty. These hormones, which women also produce but in small amounts, stimulate the production of sebum in addition to their influence on sexual development.

About 75% of adolescent boys and 50% of adolescent girls develop acne. Accumulation of bacteria on skin, high humidity, certain greasy cosmetics, certain foods and vitamins that contain iodine, and a few prescriptions medicines can also aggravate this condition.

Most sufferers grow out of acne in their early twenties and in those few cases where there is some residual scarring, a cosmetic medical procedure, such as gently shaving off the top layers of skin (dermabrasion), will usually help.

Recommended Acne Resource: Acne No More report

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