If you are in, or nearing your teen years, the chances are that you either have, or will get acne. Just about 80% of teens do get it, so if it happens; take some comfort in knowing that you’re not alone! I know, that doesn’t make you feel any better when you wake up to find the Mount Fuji of all zits on your chin, but its true, nonetheless!

So what is acne? Is it different than pimples or “zits”?

Acne is a skin condition. It is more than the occasional pimple. It is more than a cluster of pimples, in fact. Acne is a grouping of different types of bumps. They range from pimples (red bumps), white heads, black heads and even bumps that are pus filled (called cysts)

Why do you get Acne, pimples, and zits?

Well, the exact reason is not really known. But we do know that what happens when they form! Your skin (all of it) is covered with hair follicles and pores. These pores contain oil glands. You need these oil glands, otherwise your skin would dry out and we’d all look like “Leatherface” wandering around! Most of the time, these glands work just fine- they produce just the right amount of oil and your pores stay happy. But around your teen years, your hormones start going all “wacky” (that’s a very non technical term, but all of you teens and parents know what I mean!). So, now your hormones are going “wacky” and the oil glands in your skin are getting confused. So rather than not putting out too little oil, these glands put out excess oil! When these oil glands do that, your pores get clogged up (think of trying to drain a pool from a sink drain – it’s not going to work, at least not very well!). So now the pores are getting clogged with oil, and its attracting dirt and bacteria and dead skin cells. All of these clump up together and cause…acne!

When the pore gets all clogged up, and closes then it’s called a whitehead. When it’s clogged up but still open, it looks darker in color and it’s called a blackhead. The third scenario is when the “walls” of the cell are broken which allow all this bacteria and dead skin cells to get under your skin, resulting in pimples (or zits). Cysts occur when a clogged up pore opens deep under your skin and it is a bigger infection than the regular pimple.

Why do I have acne?

Hormones are the main culprits. The glands become overactive and start producing extra oil, which leads to the conditions we mentioned above.

Acne is NOT caused by Pizza, French Fries, chocolate or soda! The only time that occurs is if you have a food allergy to something in those foods. Stress – over friends, grades, parents can contribute to acne. Hygiene is not a factor when it comes to acne! Some make up CAN contribute, because of the oil in it.

If your mom or dad had acne as a teen, chances are you can thank them for your current stigma! It does seem to be hereditary!

What can I do?

Don’t pop them! Popping them leads to more bacteria entering the pores and will only make it worse!

The best thing to do is wash your face twice a day with a mild soap designed for acne. Make sure you shower after sweating a lot from sports or exercise. The sweat can also clog up your pores!

If a topical over the counter ointment (like Clearasil) doesn’t help, combined with your face washings, it might be a good idea to go see a dermatologist. They will be able to tell you exactly what kind of acne you have, and be able to give you a prescription to clear it up quicker.