Acne is a serious problem for many adults and teenagers. It can affect the face, neck, upper chest and back. Acne presents as red papules (small pumps on the skin) or pustules (pimples or small round raised areas of inflamed reddish skin filled with pus ). It can leave permanent marks, scars and darkly colored spots on the areas affected later on if not treated properly.

Acne results primarily from blockage of the secretions of the sebaceous glands (glands that produce skin oil) in the skin by blackheads formation. Black heads are also known as known Comedone. It can also result from increased secretion of sebum (oils) by these glands. This happens under the influence of some hormones that increase around puberty and this explains why acne is common among teenagers. Bacteria can flourish within the blocked gland leading to inflammation and pus formation.

There are several very common myths about acne . Actually it is not caused by lack of washing or eating chocolates and sweets. Nevertheless sweating can cause acne eruptions in a prone person. As well people with oily hair are more prone to acne eruptions so frequent hair washing is necessarily.

There are different ways to treat acne depending on the severity of the condition. Following the correct treatment will help you become, and stay acne free.

Mild Acne: ( Black heads, mainly on the face): The affected individuals have to be gentle in treating their skin, stop using facial scrubs and strong soap bars for cleaning their skin. They should stick to gentle facial washes and mild cleansing product that are oil free. The acne should not be squeezed or popped no matter how tempting this seems to be because this only makes the condition worse and can results in scaring that is very difficult to treat. Specific acne treatment is in the form Retinoid which can be in the form of gel applied directly to acne. Also Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid products are effective in getting rid of acne. Many of these products can be found over the counter. The skin should be cleansed before applying these products.

Moderate Acne: (Inflammation of acne area affecting face and maybe as well the chest and back): Here a more powerful treatment is needed so the affected individuals should consult their dermatologists to be given prescription medications that are taken by mouth instead of only depending on locally applied gels and washes. Antibiotics are given for a long period of time, usually 4-6 months. Benzoyl peroxide is used along with the antibiotics.

Severe Acne: (Scars, cysts): Some stronger retinoid are given. They are taken by mouth and used for a long period of time usually 16 weeks. Retinoids should not be given to pregnant women as they affect the well being of the baby.