What is Acne?

What exactly is acne?

Acne is an inflammatory skin disorder which can be characterized by pimples, blackheads and whiteheads. Over 80% of Americans have suffered or are still suffering from some degree of acne from the adolescent ages all the way to those in their late forties. Acne is by far the most commonly treated skin abnormality that exists today. Whether is the lifestyle we live today or our society, more and more people are continuing to experience the problems of acne into their adult years, more so now than in the past. Acne does not only cause cosmetic problems for sufferers but it also creates social implications and psychological stress as well.

Acne often makes its first appearance during the first few years of adolescence, when the body dramatically increases the development of male hormones. These new hormones stimulate the further production of keratin, a type of protein and sebum and oily skin lubrication. If sebum is created faster than it can move through the pores a blemish is created. The access oil makes the pores sticky which allows more and more bacteria to be trapped inside. Blackheads form when and if sebum combines with skin pigments and further plug the pores pushing the blemish more and more towards the skin's surface. Once it is exposed to oxygen it turns black or brown.

There are many myths circulating discussing what causes acne but only a few are accurate. The two main causes of acne are hormones and bacteria. These are the two main factors that create acne and how they are triggered and over produced is still yet to be confirmed through scientific studies. Some acne sufferers have found through the years what specifically triggers their acne and they rely on this but each and everyone is different so these home remedies cannot be understand as universal acne treatments.

It can be impossible to tell just why adults are more frequently continuing to experience acne and many people do attribute this to stress and the fast paced life everyone leads today. Of course this may be a factor but the fact of acne is that it is based on hormonal imbalances within the body; perhaps your body's way of telling you something is wrong. These hormonal imbalances are perfectly common for teenagers today but when you continue experiencing them in your adult years you may need to change your lifestyle or visit a dermatologist for professional opinions.