Acne is a disorder caused by the action of hormones on the skin's oil glands. This can lead to plugged pores and outbreaks of lesions, called pimples or zits. Acne lesions usually occur on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders.
The basic pimple is a plugged hair follicle. If this plugged follicle stays under the skin, it is called a whitehead. When it reaches the surface of the skin and opens up, it is called a blackhead because it looks black on the skin's surface.
Acne can be mild or severe. Mild outbreaks can usually be helped with over-the-counter (OTC) ointments or creams. Severe acne may require prescription ointments or antibiotics to stop the bacteria from forming.
Sites 3
- Acne Describes what it is, things that make it worse, who gets it, treatments from the store and from the doctor, and scars.
- KidsHealth: Acne Information for kids explaining the causes, myths, tips, and articles.
- SkinCareGuide.com Acne Treatments Designed to help teens understand the condition more clearly, and to provide information about maintaining acne control, and to help cure it with medication.