Acne

About

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition. It is popularly known as 'pimples' or' zits'. Acne usually manifests as comedones (whiteheads or blackheads), pimples (pustules) or cysts on the face, back and chest.

Acne is a skin infection caused by changes in the sebaceous glands, which causes blockage and inflammation of skin pores. This results in superficial skin eruptions.

Acne is most common in teenage girls and boys, but anyone can get acne, even babies. 3 out of 4 teenagers have some acne. It usually disappears after teenage years. However, acne continues to bother some individuals well into their young adulthood or even till their late forties. Acne affects nearly 50% of all adult women and 25% of adult men during their lifetime.

People generally have the tendency to squeeze these pimples to make them disappear but often this makes it worse leading to more such bumps and scarring. Acne does not only scar the face but it also affects the mind as it gives rise to negative thoughts causing many victims to suffer from depression. People who are troubled by its appearance for many years feel mentally bogged down by it causing them to suffer from insecurities.

Treatment of acne is designed to prevent formation of new lesions and aid the healing of the old. Dermatologists may prescribe topical agents or oral medicines to treat acne.