I know every teen has experienced a special event about to occur and all of a sudden there is an eruption of a pimple that seems to be larger than Mt Everest. The first response is usually, Why Me? Well, I read somewhere that close to 70 million people suffer from acne so you’re not alone.

What causes acne?

Most people experience acne around puberty when there is an increase in the production of androgens. These sex hormones regulate the size and activity of the sebaceous (oil) glands inside the pores and hair follicles of the skin. The increase production of the sex hormones causes the oil glands to enlarge. Sebum, an oily substance made by the sebaceous glands, works its way through the hair follicle to the skin surface where it combines with dead skin cells and clogs the pore. This results in blackheads or whiteheads. Your body tries to clear the pore by sending special cells to clean out the pore. In the process the cell walls often weaken and burst, emptying the contents into the surrounding tissue. When this happens you get the larger red bumps and pimples that we call acne.

What can you do about acne?

First, do not pop or squeeze your pimples as this can result in scarring and infection. Second, don’t give up chocolate there is no connection with chocolate consumption and acne. Wash your face twice daily and try to use a mild, soap and fragrance free cleanser. There is no magic cure for acne although it can be controlled. There are several over the counter lotions and creams that may be helpful with mild cases of acne. More severe cases of acne may require a visit to a dermatologist. He/she may recommend prescription creams or lotions An antibiotic may be needed if infection is serious. Have patience, the process of clearing acne may take several weeks.

More Information On Types of Acne

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Nodulocystic Acne

Acne Vulgaris

Acne Conglobata

Acne Mechanica