Acne is a common skin condition characterized by plugged pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples that occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and even upper arms.

Acne commonly starts in the early teen years, when the oil glands in the body start secreting excess sebum (oil).

Although acne is usually not a serious health threat, it can be a source of significant emotional distress. Severe acne can lead to permanent scarring.

Who gets acne?

#Anyone can get acne, but it is most common in teenagers. It may be worse in boys because they have more skin oils.

#Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women two to seven days before their menstrual period starts.

#Heredity also plays a role. If your mother and father had bad acne, you may too get it.

#Some people are extra sensitive to the bacteria that are trapped in their hair follicles.

What causes acne?

The exact cause of acne is unknown, but doctors believe it results from several related factors.

One important factor is an increase in hormones called androgens (male sex hormones). These hormones increase in both boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and secrete more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy; starting or stopping of birth control pills can also cause acne in women.

Another factor is heredity. Researchers believe that the tendency to develop acne can be inherited from parents.

Certain cosmetics and drugs, including androgens, are known to cause acne. Greasy cosmetics may alter the cells of the follicles and make them stick together, giving rise to a plugged pore.

Environmental factors, such as grease, pollution and dirt.

Stress and tension - related to hormonal change.

Does acne in women become worse before periods?

Yes. Due to hormonal changes during menstruation, many women get acne two to seven days before their periods. This gets heightened in teenage years as lot of hormonal changes take place at this time.

Factors that can make acne worse -

Factors that can cause an acne flare include:

&bullChanging hormonal levels in adolescents. In girls and adult women, before their menstrual period starts

&bullOil from cosmetics, skin products or grease

&bullPressure from garments, helmets, sports gear, tight elastic

&bullEnvironmental irritants, such as pollution and high humidity

&bullHard scrubbing of the skin

What kind of clothes/cosmetics affect acne?

If there is constant pressure resulting from headbands, bra straps, waist bands, it could cause acne eruption in those areas of the skin.

Certain cosmetics could lead to blackhead formation in the skin. Avoid hair oils, which induce blackheads and whiteheads along your hairline. Some people are also sensitive to suntan lotions.

Does acne cause scars?

Acne, especially cystic acne, can cause scars in some people. You can help reduce scarring by not squeezing blemishes. Also, avoid scrubbing your skin. If you do get scars, treatment is available.

Some truths about acne: