Acne Facts

What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition which most often begins in adolescence. The term is used to describe clogged pores and outbreaks of lesions commonly called pimples or zits. They are typically found on the face, neck, back, chest and shoulders.

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What Causes Acne?

Acne is most commonly caused by the changes that occur in adolescence. Specifically, the hormones which prompt physical maturation also cause the sebaceous or oil-producing glands of the skin, to produce more sebum (oil). When skin cells mix with an increase in sebum, pores are clogged and acne can result. Male hormones (androgens), present in both males and females, are the primary culprit in acne. Hormone fluctuations and cosmetics can also produce acne, notably in adult women.

How Common is Acne?

Acne affects approximately 17 million people in the U.S.
More than 85 percent are between the ages of 15 and 24.
More than half of acne sufferers have lesions on the chest and back.
40 percent of teens have acne that requires treatment by a physician.

Who Gets Acne?

Teen Girls

79-82 percent of teen girls have acne.
Girls tend to be more motivated to treat their acne, including initiating a visit to a dermatologist.
Acne is more commonly limited to the face in girls.

Teen Boys

Acne in boys is typically more severe and longer-lasting than in girls.
81-95 percent of boys have acne.
Chest and back acne is more prevalent in males.
Boys are generally less likely to seek treatment.
Parents can motivate and assist boys in keeping up with their acne treatment.

Adults

Acne is more prevalent in women than men.
Acne prevalence in women appears to be increasing.
Factors that may contribute to acne in women include: Hormonal fluctuations associated with menstrual cycles, and cosmetic use.
When women develop acne, it can persist into mid-life.

Are There Different Types of Pimples?

There are two classes of acne lesions, non-inflammatory and inflammatory.

Non-Inflammatory

Whiteheads are plugged follicles below the surface of the skin.
Blackheads are enlarged plugs, appearing dark in color, that push through the skin's surface.

Inflammatory

Papules develop as firm, pink bumps that feel tender to the touch.
Pustules are small, round lesions with a red base and yellowish or white center.
Nodules/Cysts, a severe form of acne, are very large and painful and can result in scarring.

What Are Common Acne Myths?

Stress causes acne: There is no evidence to suggest that everyday stress causes acne.
Diet (fried foods, chocolate), dirty skin and sexual feelings cause acne: These factors do not lead to the development of acne.
Acne must run its course: Acne can be treated safely and effectively, and innovative products may improve patient compliance and treatment success.
Learn about more Acne Myths.

Is there a Cure for Acne?

Since all acne begins with an invisible blocked pore called a microcomedone, the best treatments are those that control or eliminate these early lesions. There are a number of OTC and prescription treatments that are effective. For people with only an occasional pimple, treatment may not be worth the effort. For people with moderate to severe acne, a medical assessment might be needed to decide how to treat the acne.

What is the Social and Emotional Impact?

While the "invisible" aspects of acne are often overlooked, the emotional and social impact may be as great as what is seen in serious, chronic conditions, including asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, back pain and arthritis.

Adolescents and young adults with acne may experience a range of emotional and social symptoms:

Social isolation
Decreased self-esteem
Reduced self-confidence
Poor body image
Feelings of embarrassment, depression, anger, preoccupation and frustration
Missed school, work or social events

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