Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States. It affects between seventeen and forty-five million people. It is a condition that affects the skin over areas of the body with large oil glands, causing clogged pores and lesions. (2) These lesions can take the form of whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and cysts. Whiteheads are caused by bulging follicle heads, while blackheads are plugs composed of oil and dead skin cells that are open to the surface. Pimples are infected, inflamed raised red spots with white centers, and cysts are caused by blockages and inflammation deep inside of the hair follicles.(3,14)
Acne lesions form due to an overproduction of sebum, irritation of hair follicles due to irregular shedding of skin cells, and an overgrowth of bacteria. However, the exact cause of acne is not known. There are many conditions that are thought to influence the overproduction of sebum. In teens, androgens are mainly involved in the activation of the sebaceous glands and overproduction of sebum. Family history of acne and contact with oils and grease are also important. In adults, hormonal imbalances (e.g. cessation of oral contraceptives), and some medications are recognized as additional important factors.(3,14,18)












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