People of all races and ages get acne. It is most common in

adolescents and young adults. Around 85 percent of people

between the ages of 12 and 24 develop the disorder. Nearly 17

million people in the United States have acne, making it the

most common skin disease.

For most people, acne tends to diminish by the time they reach

their thirties; however, some people in their forties and

fifties continue to have this skin problem.

I remember when I used to get acne myself. Was that annoying.

And it sure ruined my social life, that's for sure. There is

nothing more embarrasing than going out in public with acne all

over your face. You know people are staring at you. You know

they don’t want to get near you because of those ugly marks on

your face. I think they think it’s contagious, which is not

true at all. It’s a good way to lose friends quickly.

So, how did I get rid of my acne ? Well, before you can clear

up your skin, you should know exactly who the enemy is and what

you’re up against. Here’s a summary for you and some real honest

to goodness solutions. It worked for me and it will work for you

too.

What is Acne?

Acne is a disorder resulting from the action of hormones on the

skin's oil glands (sebaceous glands), which leads to plugged

pores and outbreaks of lesions commonly called pimples or zits.

Acne lesions usually occur on the face, neck, back, chest, and

shoulders.

Although heredity may be a cause of this problem, it is more

associated with hormonal levels and how you care for your skin

(e.g. rubbing your skin too much will cause it). Chocolate and

greasy foods are often blamed, but foods seem to have little

effect on the development and course of acne in most people. In

addition, dirty skin does not cause acne and neither does

stress.

How Is Acne Treated?

You can buy over the counter medicine (OTC), see your family

doctor, or a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Over-the-counter(OTC) Medicines

Benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, and sulfur are

the most common topical OTC medicines used to treat acne.

Topical OTC medications are available in many forms, such as

gel, lotion, cream, soap, or pad.

Prescription Topical Medicines

Several types of prescription topical medicines include benzoyl

peroxide, tretinoin, adapalene, and azelaic acid.

Some people develop side effects from using prescription

topical medicines including stinging, burning, redness,

peeling, scaling, or discoloration of the skin.

Prescription Oral Medicines

Oral antibiotics are thought to help control acne by curbing

the growth of bacteria and reducing inflammation. Examples are

clindamycin, erythromycin, sulfur, or isotretinoin. Some people

experience side effects when taking these antibiotics, such as

an increased tendency to sunburn, upset stomach, dizziness or

lightheadedness, changes in skin color, and dry skin.

Other treatments

There are lazer treatments for rare serious cases and there are

safe and natural herbal medications that work like over the

counter medications, but often with less side effects.

How Should People With Acne Care for Their Skin?

• Clean Skin Gently with a mild cleanser 3 or 4 times a day.

• Avoid Frequent Handling of the Skin.

• Shave Carefully.

• Avoid a Sunburn or Suntan.

• Use Non-Oily Cosmetics.

In summary, there are many treatments out there for acne skin

problems. Talk to your doctor if you’re unsure what to do. Try

some of the suggestions mentioned here. In no time at all,

you’ll look better, feel better, and you’ll be back out there

enjoying your social life, your friends, and your family much

more.