|
The common form of
acne seen most often in teenagers or young adults, acne vulgaris, is the
result of overactive oil glands that become plugged, red, and inflamed. The resulting
lesions are commonly referred to as pimples, blemishes, whiteheads,
blackheads, or even zits. Doctors and researchers describe acne using terms such
as comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts.
Acne is most frequently seen
on the faces, necks, or backs of adolescents, caused by the rapid increase
in testosterone during puberty. As we age, the extensive acne breakouts of
our teenage years become
infrequent occurrences of individual pimples, although some adults do continue
to have problems with recurring acne blemishes.
Pregnancy can also cause acne outbreaks due to
increased hormone levels.
|
Although many foods have been targeted as
causes of acne--particularly chocolate and greasy, fried foods, research has
not established a link.
Severe acne can cause permanent scarring and
should be treated by a dermatologist. Acne, particularly facial
acne, can cause low self-esteem, embarrassment, and social withdrawal,
therefore treatment is advisable. For more severe cases, doctors may
prescribe oral medications.
There are many at-home products available
to treat mild to moderate acne that include medicated soaps and cleansers,
medicated wipes, and a variety of creams and lotions that often contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. As long as there
are teenagers with acne, researchers will continue to attempt to develop improved anti-acne
products. |
