Acne vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a common human skin disease, characterized by areas of skin with sebaceous glands (or "oil glands") that have become inflamed or infected. This condition is most common in adolescence, affecting more than 85% of teenagers, and frequently continues into adulthood. For most people, acne diminishes over time and tends to disappear, or at least decrease, after one reaches one's early twenties. There is, however, no way to predict how long it will take to disappear entirely, and some individuals will continue to suffer from acne decades later, into their thirties and forties and even beyond.

Causes

The exact cause of acne is not known, but it is believed to be due to changes in the body's hormones that trigger the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. This oil, along with dead skin cells, can clog the pores and create an environment where bacteria can grow and cause inflammation.

Symptoms

Acne vulgaris typically affects the areas of skin with the densest population of sebaceous follicles; these areas include the face, the upper part of the chest, and the back. The resulting appearance can lead to anxiety, reduced self-esteem, and in extreme cases, depression or thoughts of suicide.

Treatment

Treatment for acne vulgaris can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Over-the-counter treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and sulfur preparations, can be effective for mild acne. For more severe cases, prescription medications, such as retinoids, antibiotics, or isotretinoin, may be used. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be recommended.

Prevention

While it is not always possible to prevent acne, there are steps that can be taken to help reduce the likelihood of an outbreak. These include maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and good skin care practices, such as washing the face regularly with a gentle cleanser and avoiding harsh skin care products that can irritate the skin.

See also

• Dermatology
• Skin care
• Human skin