Acne

In most cases, acne starts between the ages of 10 - 13 and usually lasts 5 - 10 years. However, acne can persist into the late twenties and thirties, therefore some people are getting acne for the first time as adults. Males are more likely to have longer lasting and more severe cases while females are more likely to have intermittent acne due to hormonal influence and use of cosmetics. Acne lesions are most common on the face but can occur elsewhere. Acne has been divided into four grades from Grade 1(mild) to Grade 4 (serious and requiring medical attention). Several factors occur in the skin, including:

1) Production of excess oil by sebaceous glands.

2) Buildup of dead skin cells, which do not exfoliate efficiently causing pores to clog.

3) The presence of particular bacteria on the skin and pores generating waste products which irritate skin.

These cause an immune system response creating redness and pus. Heredity can pre-dispose you to develop acne but there are other contributing triggers including stress, hormones, cosmetics and poor hygiene techniques. Excellent skin care and hygiene are important to remove excess oil and bacteria associated with acne. Products used on the skin must be non-comedogenic and water soluble. A strict regime of thorough cleansing and exfoliating is important.

Try to reduce stress, drink lots of water and limit intake of caffeine and nicotine. Never pick or squeeze a pimple, which can cause a scar.