Photo of acne from Wikipedia

What Is Acne?

As defined by an online medical dictionary, acne is a common skin disease characterized by pimples on the face, chest, and back. It occurs when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria.

What Causes Acne?

Many things are blamed for acne, including greasy food, dirty skin, and clogged pores. However, none of these problems actually cause acne by themselves. Acne is usually caused when overactive oil glands in the sebaceous glands the skin become stimulated by hormones during the teen years. The excess oil combines with dirt, and bacteria, and the resulting irritation is seen on the surface of the skin. These lesions are commonly called pimples, blemishes, whiteheads, blackheads and zits.

Other Causes of Acne

The condition is more common in boys than in girls, and people with a family history of acne are more likely to get the disease. Stress can bring on or aggravate acne, and certain drugs can cause flare-ups including tranquilizers, antidepressants, antibiotics, oral contraceptives, and anabolic steroids. It is always good to consult with a doctor about acne to determine if medication or hormonal disorders may play a part.

Barring a medical condition, acne is most likely the result of dirt, oil and bacteria lodged in clogged pores. Nashville is a prime area for the development of acne and other skin problems as our city's unique bowl-like geography holds in humidity, allergens, and even pollution. The combination of heat, humidity, pollution and sweat makes a potent recipe for acne.

Don't miss Part Two: How to prevent acne; top ten tips to reduce pimples and avoid acne