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. Nearly 17 million people in the United States have acne, making it the most common skin disease.

Although acne is not a serious health threat, severe acne can lead to disfiguring, permanent scarring, which can be upsetting to people who are affected by the disorder.

The most common form of acne is known as acne vulgaris, which means common acne. Most women will experience at least a few acne pimples over the course of their lives. Acne pimples form when oil glands make too much sebum, an oily substance. Sebum is made in much larger amounts during and right after puberty than at other times in a woman's life. Sebum then blocks pores to form whiteheads, which form under the skin, and blackheads, which are open to the air. Blackheads are black because the air causes a chemical reaction with the oily debris inside, not because they are dirty. Yeast and bacteria in the skin cause whiteheads to become inflamed, making red, sometimes pus-filled pimples.

Because acne forms under the skin, washing away surface oils doesn't do much to prevent or cure it. It is a myth that women get acne because they don't wash enough. Gentle washing is important. But, too much washing can irritate the whiteheads and blackheads, causing them to be more infected and making more pimples. Pressure on the skin can make acne worse, by helping block the pores, so chin straps and headbands should be avoided. Hair spray can also block pores. Another myth is that certain foods cause acne. Greasy foods do not cause oily skin. Some medications can cause acne, although this is rare.

For some, acne can be a severe and emotionally difficult illness. As women grow out of adolescence however, acne vulgaris usually gets better. However, some women continue to have acne pimples for many years. Hormonal changes can cause acne after adolescence. For instance, many women experience acne during pregnancy. This usually gets better after the baby is delivered and hormonal levels go back to normal.