Skin Disorders

Here are some reliable sources that can provide more information on acne. American Academy of Dermatology  Phone: 888-462-DERM http://www.aad.org American Society of Dermatologic Surgery  Phone: 1-800-441-2737 http://www.asds-net.org National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases  Phone: (301) 495-4484 or (877) 22-NIAMS (toll free) http://www.nih.gov/niams/healthinfo/info.htm

There are four major factors responsible for causing acne. They act together to cause the characteristic pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads associated with acne. They are: Overactive oil glands Blockage of the skin pores Activity of normal skin bacteria Inflammation Overactive Oil Glands Oil glands are located deep in the skin. They are also known as sebaceous glands. Each

Adolescents are the most commonly affected. Because of the high hormonal activity during puberty, acne affects many teenagers. Those individuals whose oil glands produce more oil tend to be affected by acne more often than those whose glands don’t produce excess oil. Heredity Can Play A Role Statistics suggest that heredity is a strong contributing factor for

Acne responds well to treatment, especially if treated early, at the onset of the condition. Treatment is offered to: Prevent possible scarring Deal with inflamed and painful areas Limit the formation of new blackheads and whiteheads Lessen any stress or embarrassment associated with the acne Mild acne can be treated with over-the-counter medications. More serious

Mild acne usually resolves over time and may or may not leave some scarring. When moderate to severe acne is not treated early enough, acne may scar the skin. There are two types of scars that result from acne: Hypertrophic scars are hard upraised areas of the skin surface. Pits, or “pock marks,” are depressed

While undergoing treatment for acne, it is important to take precautions in caring for the affected skin. If you are a man who shaves, you should try to avoid nicking your pimples by softening your beard before shaving with soap and warm water. You may also want to try a safety razor and electric razor

Most people with mild, moderate, or severe acne show improvement within six months with the appropriate treatment. However, if no improvement is observed after three months, then the treatment should be changed. For example, a common recommendation made by doctors for oral antibiotic treatments are two doses of tablets for six months. But if no improvement is