If you aren't a sufferer of the effects of acne, feel
lucky. Acne is one of the most common skin diseases in the
United States, affecting some 17 million people.

By definition, it occurs when the pores of the skin are
plugged, where the natural oil, called sebum, can't reach
the pore's surface.

Doctors believe that it could be the overproduction of
sebum that contributes to the clogging of pores, which
results in the formation of pimples and zits. All of this
occurs especially around the time of puberty, adolescence
and even into adulthood.

Problems with severe acne can go on for years, even into
one's forties or fifties.

The sebaceous glands, which produce the sebum, connect to
the hair follicle. Breakouts of pimples and/or zits on the
face, upper-back and chest are most common in this are
because this is where the glands are most active.

While acne isn't a deadly disease, per se, it can lead to
problems later for those who've been inflicted by it.
Whiteheads and blackheads can last for an extended period
of time, causing irritation and inflammation.

Sufferers of acne usually become self-conscious if the
pimples and zits lead to cysts that can leave deep facial
scars. These scars may never truly disappear.

Now that we understand the biological factors that
contribute to acne, we can focus on the environmental and
genetic aspects of the disease. As far as genetics are
concerned, adolescents with a family history of acne tend
to also have the disease.

At some level, it's the way our genes program our glands
and hormones, which in turn affects how much oil the glands
produce.

Other factors can actually make acne worse. Greasy make-up,
and other types of drugs, usually androgens, can cause acne
to flare up. Women are more at risk as their menstrual
cycle nears each month.

Wearing tight collars, hats or even bags over the shoulders
can also contribute. Many times the weather can also affect
acne. A hot and humid day can cause a breakout.

Also, squeezing, popping or picking at lesions (pimples,
whiteheads, blackheads and zits) will not help at all. In
fact, the oil and bacteria on your hands will actually clog
other surrounding pores more.

So not everyone can avoid Acne, but if you know the causes,
then there's a chance to prevent it.
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