What is Acne? - Part Two

Most people - about 85% - are affected by acne during their teenage years. Most of these - about 75% - have acne on their faces, but 25% of all acne sufferers have acne on their upper torso which includes the back, the neck, the chest, and the shoulders.

Close to half of all acne sufferers seek medical treatment for their condition. There are several ways to combat acne and seeking the advice of a dermatologist is a wise thing to do for anyone who is bothered by their acne.

Acne and the T-Zone

Acne most commonly appears in the T-Zone -  the part of the face made up of the forehead, the nose, and the chin. Acne can also occur on other parts of the face as well as the upper torso - most commonly the back.

For most people, acne will clear up by the time they are in their 20s. This happens because the hormonal changes that occur during puberty finally normalize and the body stops producing excess sebum and follicle cells.

Some people, however, will still have an acne problem when they are adults. In some cases acne may even appear for the first time during the adult years.

Both males and females suffer from acne, but males have a slightly higher rate of acne and also tend to be more affected by severe forms of acne than females.

Social Effects of Acne

Although adults tend to dismiss acne as a relatively minor affliction, it can have lasting effects on the acne sufferer. It can leave permanent scars and can also be the root of depression and lack of self-confidence. Those with severe acne may withdraw from social activities and become overwhelmed with feelings of anger and frustration.

Take heart, though! Acne CAN be treated. Medical research in recent years has come up with effective treatments for keeping acne under control. There are many acne medications that can be purchased over-the-counter and some that must be prescribed by a dermatologist.

Dermatological treatment is highly recommended for anyone who is bothered by their acne. The dermatologist can prescribe lotions that are applied directly to the skin as well as oral medications that keep bacteria under control. The dermatologist can also offer valuable advice concerning diet and lifestyle changes that can help keep acne under control.