Acne is considered a very common, but potentially devastating, skin condition that can leave emotional, mental, and physical scars on the sufferer. It occurs when the fine hair follicles in the skin become clogged with dead cells and oil accumulation. The clogged cells turn into whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. Acne usually forms on the face, chest, shoulders, and upper back. The skin disorder commonly occurs after puberty in teenagers, but it can affect all ages. Left untreated, the disorder may scar the skin.

Factors that Cause Acne

Many components are believed to cause acne such as:

• Hormones
• Oily skin
• Stress
• Diet
• Medications
• Genetics

Treatments of Acne

Early treatment of acne is imperative to reduce the likelihood of scarring. A variety of over the counter medications are available at drugstores to treat or prevent acne. Unfortunately, many lack effectiveness. Ideally, you should consult with a trained physician to determine the best treatment for your acne type.

There are several treatment options such as:

• Topical Medications
• Oral Medications
• Antibiotics
• Birth Control Pills
• Laser Light Therapy
• Chemical Peels
• Acne Surgery

Mild forms of acne can often be treated with topicals, but more severe forms require extensive treatment to prevent scarring. Consulting with a dermatologist to start treatment early can prevent a mild case of acne from becoming severe.