If you aren't a sufferer of
effects of acne, feel lucky. Acne is one of most common skin diseases in United States, affecting some 17 million people. By definition, it occurs when pores of skin are plugged, where natural oil, called sebum, can't reach pore's surface.
Doctors believe that it could be overproduction of sebum that contributes to clogging of pores, which results in formation of pimples and zits. All of this occurs especially around time of puberty, adolescence and even into adulthood.
Problems with severe acne can go on for years, even into one's forties or fifties.
The sebaceous glands, which produce sebum, connect to hair follicle. Breakouts of pimples and/or zits on face, upper-back and chest are most common in this are because this is where glands are most active.
While acne isn't a deadly disease, per se, it can lead to problems later for those who've been inflicted by it. Whiteheads and blackheads can last for an extended period of time, causing irritation and inflammation.
Sufferers of acne usually become self-conscious if pimples and zits lead to cysts that can leave deep facial scars. These scars may never truly disappear.
Now that we understand biological factors that contribute to acne, we can focus on environmental and genetic aspects of disease. As far as genetics are concerned, adolescents with a family history of acne tend to also have disease.
