Hi, Everybody! This month I've decided to explore a subject near and dear to each teenager's heart, or should I say skin--the subject of acne. Yes, I'm going to "pick on zits!" Actually, you really shouldn't pick your zits, or so I'm told. So what is the real truth about acne anyway?

What is acne?

Acne is a disorder of your hair follicles and their attached oil glands in your skin. Your pimples can often take weeks to develop before you can see them! When you can see them they can appear as white bumps, red bumps, black bumps, and pus filled bumps of all different shapes and sizes.

Why do teenagers get acne?

When teenagers go through puberty, their sex hormones become very active. These hormones also cause the oil glands in your skin to get bigger and produce more oil. The excess oil that is produced is a main factor in causing acne.

How do you get rid of acne?

Unfortunately, there is no miracle cure or pill you can take to get rid of pimples instantly. It's best to wash your face with soap and water twice a day. You should also use an over-the-counter medication once a day. Not just when a pimples appears. On the issue of popping--well, it's kind of undecided. Popping is sometimes good and sometimes bad. If you drain a pimple too hard, it can worsen the infected area. If you're going to do it at all, you should first apply a warm cloth to the area with acne to soften to material inside. Drain very carefully and not too hard. Other than that, you just have to let them be.

Is everything we hear true?

There are many myths that go along with acne. A common belief is that dirt causes acne. That is not true. It is very important to clean your skin, but the root of acne comes from deep down in the follicle where cleaning can't reach. Another misconception is about food. Many people believe that chocolate and greasy foods are a cause of acne. Most doctors today feel that diet does not play a role in pimples.

Well, friends, our investigation is over. Now we know the how, why, and what about acne. As I always say, the best way to fight acne is to know acne! See you next month!

Skin Care Hotlist

Acne and Cysts
What is Acne?
What Causes Acne?
Acne Helper
Acne Resource Center

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