Acne Control

First, some basics before we get into the control of acne.

Acne (also known as Pimples or Zits) is a common skin disease that causes pimples. Pimples form when hair follicles under your skin clog up. Most pimples form on the face, back, neck, chest and shoulders. Anyone can get acne, but it is more common in teenagers and younger adults. It is not serious, but can be severe and it can cause scaring.

No one really knows exactly what causes acne. Hormone changes, such as those during the teenage years and pregnancy, may have something to do with the condition. There are many myths about what causes acne. Chocolate and greasy foods are blamed the most, but there is little evidence that foods have much or any effect on acne control in most people.

Another common myth is that dirty skin causes acne; however, blackheads and pimples are not caused by dirt. Stress doesn't cause acne, but some research has shown that stress can make it worse.

If you have acne, control can be as easy as

• Clean your skin gently
• Try not to touch your skin
• Avoid the sun

Treatments for acne include medicines and creams.