Acne

Acne is an inflammatory skin disorder characterized by pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Acne often arises at puberty, when the body dramatically increases its production of androgens (male sex hormones). Although more than 20 million teenagers suffer from this disorder, acne is not just affecting kids anymore – it is also affecting increasing numbers of adults. While teenage acne most commonly occurs on the face and/or upper body, adult acne is usually limited to the chin and jaw line, and involves fewer, but possibly more painful, blemishes. Factors that can contribute to acne include heredity, oily skin, hormonal imbalance, monthly menstrual cycles, and candidiasis.