Acne is an inflammatory skin ailment that is marked by pimples appearing on almost any part of the body, but most commonly on the face. Acne is a common problem among teenagers; it is thought to be caused by hormones, improper diet, vitamin deficiencies, and even stress. Acne does not discriminate and can break out at nearly any age.

Acne takes various forms, ranging from the mild to the severely damaging. Mild acne includes whiteheads, blackheads, pimples or pustules, and many other skin irritations and bumps that can be painful, irritating, and unsightly. Some of the more problematic acne can form as large boils that take months to dissipate.

While the precise cause of acne is unknown, it is clear how acne is formed. Most blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples are formed when a pore in the epidermis layer of the skin swells or collapses, preventing oil from moving naturally out of the pore. When the oil is blocked, a small infection occurs. What is unknown is why the pore becomes blocked in the first place.

While there is no permanent cure for acne, it can be treated and even prevented quite successfully. The first step in treating and preventing acne is to keep skin clean and dry. Although pores often become blocked or clogged regardless of the cleanliness of a person’s skin, clean skin goes a long way towards preventing outbreaks of acne.

Always cleanse the skin with a gentle cleanser that is non-drying and non-aggravating, also called non-comedogenic. Medicated cleansers are not necessary. Cleansing the skin should simply involve a cleanser, water, and your hands.

Often, a wash cloth or hand towel may irritate the skin. Scrubbing should be avoided, as it does not cure acne; in fact, it can even lead to more acne. Simply wash and then dry with a soft towel. Wash the skin twice daily, or more if the skin is unusually oily. Astringents can be used on exceptionally oily skin, but avoid alcohol-based astringents, as they dry out and can damage the skin.

The second step in treating and preventing acne is medication. Acne medication can be found over-the-counter and in prescription form. Most over-the-counter acne medications contain one or more of a few basic ingredients: benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, and resorcinol. These are generally drying agents that also draw the pores out, causing blockages to let loose.

Prescription acne medication comes in many different forms, from higher dosages of benzoyl peroxide mixed with a mild antibiotic, to powerful antibiotics, oral contraceptives, accutane, acid treatments, and even stronger medications that often take off several layers of skin. Prescription acne treatments usually take longer to work, and the side effects can sometimes be as irritating as the acne itself. A dermatologist will be able to help acne sufferers decide which route to take in treating acne.