Acne is an inflammatory skin ailment characterized by superficial skin eruptions that are originated by plugged skin pores. Acne commonly appears on the face and shoulders, but can cover the trunk, arms and legs.

Acne appears when sebaceous glands inside the hair follicles (pores) of the skin become plugged, due to emissions that are produced faster than oil and skin cells can evacuate through the follicle. The clog causes the follicle to swell (causing whiteheads), and the top of the plug can darken (causing blackheads). If the plug causes the surface of the follicle to break, the oil, devitalized skin cells, and microbes found normally on the surface of the skin can enter the skin and form small infected areas named pustules (also known as pimples or "zits").

When the body reacts against this invasion, in an attempt to destroy the intruders, what we know as pimples are formed. As the white cells defend and die they cause an inflamed area that becomes red (pimple) which over time turns into an even greater mass of dead cells that can create a pus pocket (white head). If an acne isn't treated properly it can evolve into an acne scar, however, you can avoid scarring by treating acne breakouts early on.

Open pores can also be impaired with dried oils. Foreign matter or just facial dirt creates what is commonly called a blackhead. Salt from sweat is another contributor to many facial break outs when it dries and blocks pores.

Cysts appear when the infection reaches the deeper layers of the skin. A sebaceous cyst appears when the sebaceous gland continues to secrete oil. Instead of breaking the follicle wall, the follicle keeps growing to form a soft, pliable lump (known as a cyst) under the skin. The cyst is usually not painful or discolored unless it becomes infected.

Teen Acne

Acne is usually seen most in adolescent boys , but it can occur in both genders and at all ages. The tendency to acquire acne is inherited. The condition usually begins at puberty and can continue for many years. Every 3 out of 4 teenagers have acne to some extent, apparently caused by hormonal changes that activate the sebaceous (oil secreting) skin glands. Other hormonal fluctuations that occur with menstrual periods, pregnancy, use of anticonceptive pills, or stress, also exacerbates acne.

Acne is not simply originated by dirt or build-up, but dirt and oil can worsen the condition. Other factors that increase the chances of acne are endocrine disorders, hormonal changes, certain tumors, exposure to weather extremes, oily skin, stress, and the use of certain drugs (such as testosterone, cortisone, estrogen, and others). Acne is not contagious. A tendency to develop acne can persist through ages 30's to early 40's.

Prognosis

Acne is usually chronic from adolescence to adulthood, but eventually lessens. Acne usually responds well to treatment after a few weeks, but can flare up from time to time. Acne is not medically hazardous except for untreated, severe infection. Scars can occur if severe acne is not treated; a good acne scars removal treatment is then needed.