Many people are affected by acne; 90% of adolescents, 50% of women and 25% all of adults. It is found to be one of the largest medical conditions throughout the world, and while the scientists are always doing acne treatment research, there is still no cure, all though there are acne treatments. Some of the best acne treatments include, medical treatment of acne as well as natural acne treatments.

What is Acne?

Acne is an irritating red rash on the skin that is most commonly seen in teenagers and young adults. Acne occurs in the oil-producing areas of the body: the chest, face and back but will sometimes form on the neck and upper arms.

The Causes of Acne

Acne occurs because of the overproduction of oil by the skin’s oil glands. The oil that is normally produced for lubrication of the skin gets trapped in oil ducts. This trapped oil will form into what we know as pimples, whitehead and blackheads.

For most, acne problems begin at puberty where the body produces the hormones androgens. These androgens cause sebaceous glands to become enlarged and are the cause for acne that is associated with menstrual cycles and sometimes pregnancy.

Extra sebum is another cause of acne. When the sebaceous gland is triggered by the androgen, it forms extra sebum. The sebum mixes with regular skin bacteria and dead skin cells that have shed. The extra sebum increases clogging and causes acne.

Bacteria in the skin will also cause acne. The bacterium Propionibacterium acne are found on all skin types, but once a follicle is plugged, this acne bacteria multiples and creates inflammation in the follicle and in the surrounding area.

The body’s inflammation process may cause acne for some. When the body is attacked by unwanted bacteria, white blood cells will attack them. This process, chemotaxis, is the body’s inflammatory response. With this, pimples become swollen and red and many times are painful. This process is different for everyone, but tends to be stronger in adult women.