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Acne is caused by the over-activity of sebaceous glands (Glands which are present along the hair follicles and produce a slimy substance called sebum which lubricates the skin). Excessive production of this slimy substance can clog the natural openings (called pores) in the skin. As the pores become blocked, it gives opportunity to a bug called Propionobacterium acnes, which normally lives on the skin, to thrive within the blocked pore. This infection causes inflammation, which is responsible for the redness and swelling of a spot.

Sometimes as in severe acne, the pocket of inflammation within a pore can rupture, causing damage to the skin that can result in scarring.
Contrary to popular belief, acne is not caused by eating fatty food or chocolate.
Acne can be produced due to over-activity of the male sex hormone called testosterone( produced during puberty).
Treatment: Acne is not a serious complaint. However it can be the source of considerable emotional distress. But there is a range of treatment options to tackle the problem.
Home treatment
1. Personal hygiene and cleanliness: It's important to keep spot-prone areas clean, so wash the affected area twice a day with a natural cleansers like antibacterial face washes and soaps. However, the skin needs a certain amount of oil to maintain its natural condition, so avoid aggressive washing with strong soaps.
2. Try to avoid the temptation to pick at spots: over-enthusiastic squeezing can cause scarring.
3. Over the counter Creams and lotions containing benzoyl peroxide helps in most of the cases.
If even after using home treatment for 3-6 months acne persist or if you have more severe acne, you might have to consult a doctor.
Prescription medicines:
Topical treatment like creams and lotions containing azelaic acid, topical retinoids (medicines based on vitamin A) and antibiotics ( erythromycin) are available on prescription. For more severe cases oral treatment in form of Oral antibiotics might be required. Isotretinoin (oral retinoid) is a very powerful medicine and is used in severe forms of acne that have proved resistant to other treatments. There are a number of side effects of this drug. For safety reasons, isotretinoin is only prescribed by hospital specialists that too in extreme cases.

Learn more about this author, Dorothy Wilde.
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