acne is originated when sebaceous glands within the hair follicles (pores) of the skin become plugged, because secretion occurs faster than the oil and skin cells can evacuate the follicle. The plug causes the follicle to bulge (causing whiteheads), and the top of the plug can darken (causing blackheads). If the plug causes the wall of the follicle to rupture, the oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria found commonly on the surface of the skin can enter the skin and form small infected areas called pustules (also called pimples or "zits").
The actual pimple is usually the result of bacteria entering an open skin pore making the body to respond with millions of white cells to destroy the invaders. As these white cells fight and die they cause an inflamed area that turns red (pimple) which over time becomes an even greater mass of dead cells that can create a pus pocket (white head).
Of course open pores can also be blocked with dried oils, external matter or just facial dirt that create what is usually called a black head. Salt from sweat is another contributor to various facial break outs when it dries and clogs pores. Acne bacteria within the clogged pore produces further irritation.
If these infected areas are deep in the skin, they can enlarge to form cysts. A sebaceous cyst appears when the sebaceous gland continues to produce oil. Instead of opening the follicle wall, the follicle continues to enlarge and make a soft, pliable lump (called a cyst) under the skin. The cyst is usually not painful or discolored unless it becomes infected.
Acne in adolescents
Acne is most usual in teenage boys, but it can appear in both genders and at all ages. The tendency to develop acne is genetic. The condition usually starts at puberty and can continue for many years. Three out of four adolescents have acne to some extent, most likely caused by hormonal variations that activate the sebaceous (oil secreting) skin glands. Other hormonal changes that happen with menstrual periods, use of birth control pills, pregnancy, or stress, also aggravate acne.
Acne is not initiated by dirt or physical activities, but dirt and oil on the face can aggravate the condition. Other factors that increase the chances of acne are endocrine disorders, certain tumors, oily skin, exposure to weather extremes, stress, hormonal fluctuations, and the use of certain drugs (such as testosterone, cortisone, estrogen, and others). Acne is not contagious. A tendency to have acne can persist through ages 30's to early 40's.
Prognosis Acne is usually chronic from adolescence to adulthood, but eventually recedes. Acne generally responds well to any treatment after a few weeks, but can flare up from time to time. Acne is not physically dangerous except for untreated, severe infection. Scarring can appear if severe acne is not treated. Fortunately, you can turn to acne scar treatments to aid you with this ailment.
Our latest acne treatment product can help you get rid of all kinds of scars, imperfections and skin conditions, ensuring the recovery of the look and functionality of your skin.
Please Rate this Article
Click the XML Icon Above to Receive Acne Articles Via RSS!
