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What Is Acne, And What Are the Causes Of It?

By: Nathan James Acne, also known as Acne Vulgaris, is simply put- an inflammatory disease of the skin. Acne shows itself in the form of pimples, zits or spots. It is often caused by changes in the pilosebaceous units. The pilosebaceous units refer to the skin which consists of hair follicles and sebaceous glands. "Acne" derives from the Greek words "acme" (which means skin erruption) and "bacne" or "backne". The latter terms are often used to refer to the form of acne found on one's back.

Acne is found quite often in pubescent individuals. Because of a high genetic disposition to the condition, acne is particularly common in Western societies. It is believed that the presence of acne is due to an abnormal response to normal levels in the body of testosterone, the male hormone. For many individuals, this response tends to diminish over time, causing the acne to decrease by the time they reach their 20's, or even disappear. Unfortunately, it is impossible to tell how long it will take for acne to completely disappear; for some people they may experience it for many decades- even beyond their 30's or 40's. A large number of people will experience this condition at some point in their life.

There are several different types of acne, as described below:

1. Acne Vulgaris- found on the face, chest and shoulders. It is the most common type of acne, and will typically appear around puberty.

2. Acne Rosacea- predominantly found on one's face. It presents itself as a red rash.

3. Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (also known as Pseudofolliculitis Nuchae)- this form of acne is caused by shaving.

4. Acne Conglobata (also knowns as Hidradenitis Suppurativa) - usually found in armpits, on the groin or buttocks, or also under women's breasts. This type of acne describes chronic abscesses or boils on sweat glands and hair follicles.

5. Acne Cosmetica - This type of acne is caused by cosmetics.

6. Acne Fulminas - refers to Acne Conglobata in an extreme form.

7. Acne Medicamentosa - typically triggered by starting or finishing a course of medication.

8. Baby Acne - very commonly found on infants. It is a rash that can be found on the baby's cheeks, chin and forehead.

9. Chloracne - This form of acne rash is caused by the person being exposed to chlorinated hydrocarbons such as dioxins or PCB's.

Hopefully the information provided to you above with regard to acne will help you to understand more clearly what it is and how it is caused.

Article Source: http://www.lifeweightloss.com

Find out more about acne treatments, such as using a hand held facial steamer for skin care on the Acne Squad website. Visit www.AcneSquad.com for more information about the best acne treatments.

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