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The Bothersome Acne Woes

One of the most bothersome skin conditions of mankind is acne. The red spots that embarrass and spoil school pictures plague teenagers. Pimples, blackheads and whiteheads as well as the deeper pimple called cyst herald acne woes.

Acne is so common that 4 out of every 5 people aged 12 - 24 have acne problems. Certain events in life seem to trigger acne including hormonal imbalance like what is experienced during the teen years, menstrual cycles, pregnancy and even stress can trigger a fresh batch of blemishes. The most direct cause of acne is excessive oil on the skin, hair follicle irritation and bacterial buildup on the skin's surface.

Teens may disagree with this assessment but insurance companies and doctors do not consider acne to be a serious medical condition. The one time this is not the case is when severe acne causes scarring and emotional distress. There is no way to stop acne from forming but individuals can partake of treatment preparations that can reduce the appearance of acne and minimize the scars left from acne.

Food cannot cause acne. Scrubbing the skin too hard, using strong soaps on the skin or other unfriendly skin products that irritate the skin can cause acne. Acne is directly related to skin irritations and over production of oil as well as clogged pores.

Things that can aggravate acne are oil-based cosmetics and skin products, the use of cortisone, genetic therapy, pressure on the skin and friction on the skin and also exposure to greasy products.

Acne leads to low self-esteem and the ability to face people, which can interfere with a person's ability to relate to others, to form relationships.

Acne can be serious when it persists or becomes so severe that it causes scarring that can damage your skin.

Good hygiene is the single more important preventative and can make a real difference in the occurrence of acne.

Remember to use mild soap when cleansing the skin. Always seek the advice of a medical professional before using any acne preparation for any extended time. A physician should examine acne that is persistant or appears to be severe. Medical professionals including dermatologists can prescribe antibiotics, isotretinoin, oral contraceptives, and topical treatments that can make a real difference in how your skin looks.

Other things to do to help reduce the acne on your face, back or chest area is to keep your hands off these areas and if you must touch your skin make sure your hands are clean. Do not use irritating products like harsh soaps or chemicals on your skin. Do not pick at any acne you may have, as this will make them redden and appear worse as well as lat longer.