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by: NathanJames
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Acne is a very common skin condition that generally affects people during their teenage years. More commonly known as pimples, it most often appears on the face but can affect other parts of the body such as the back, neck and shoulders.

Even though it's usually associated with teens it does in fact affect adults too. And it doesn't discriminate - men and women are affected almost equally and it occurs in every race.

The full name for acne is actually Acne Vulgaris. The visible symptoms, which almost everyone is familiar with, are lesions that appear on the skin. These lesions can be cysts, whiteheads or blackheads that form from clogged pores.

Teenagers are most commonly affected because their bodies produce a larger amount of sebum - an oily substance that helps keep skin and hair soft and lubricated. Because it is often overproduced during puberty, it can lead to clogged pores. It also sometimes leaves the skin feeling oily to the touch.

Another reason acne is common during puberty is an increase in follicle cells. When these cells die, they build up pretty quickly and when combined with the sebum, lead to acne.

The mixture of the two is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which winds up as the swelling and redness that we recognize as pimples.

Roughly 85% of people from 12 to 24 years old are affected by acne. About 25% of those people develop acne in places other than their face, usually their neck and back. 40% of the people who deal with acne wind up seeking medical treatment to help with serious outbreaks.

The most commonly affected area is known as the "T Zone" - the area on the face made up of the forehead, nose and chin. It can affect other parts of the face such as the cheeks, however.

The back is the next most commonly affected part of the body, followed by the shoulders, neck and chest.

For most people, their acne will clear up by the time they're in their 20's. There are some cases where it will continue throughout their adult life however, and some people experience it for the first time as an adult.

About the Author

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