Acne is a common inflammatory condition of the skin. It can be seen in people of any age. But teens and young adults are most commonly affected. During the teen years, there is an increase in production of skin oils on the face, neck, chest, upper back, and upper arms. These oils and dead skin cells can block hair follicles and allow an overgrowth of normal bacteria. This results in acne.
Mild acne causes whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. More severe acne causes cysts and scarring. Teenage acne is more common in boys than girls. Acne that continues in adulthood is more common in women.
These factors can make acne worse:
- Oil-based cosmetics
- Certain medicines
- Hormonal changes, such as during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause
- Stress
- Heavy sweating
- Frequent or hard scrubbing of the skin
- Skin rubbing against helmets, shoulder pads, turtlenecks, and bra straps
- Too frequent face washing
- Popping or squeezing the bumps or pimples
- Not removing makeup before bed or sharing makeup, brushes, or other makeup applicators