Acne vulgaris (patient information)
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What is Acne vulgaris?
Acne is a disease that affects the skin's oil glands. The small holes in your skin (pores) connect to oil glands under the skin. These glands make an oily substance called sebum. The pores connect to the glands by a canal called a follicle. Inside the follicles, oil carries dead skin cells to the surface of the skin. A thin hair also grows through the follicle and out to the skin. When the follicle of a skin gland clogs up, a pimple grows.
Most pimples are found on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. Acne is not a serious health threat but, it can cause scars.
What are the symptoms of Acne vulgaris?
What causes Acne vulgaris?
The cause of acne is unknown. Doctors think certain factors might cause it:
--The hormone increase in teenage years (this can cause the oil glands to plug up more often)
--Hormone changes during pregnancy
--Starting or stopping birth control pills
--Heredity (if your parents had acne, you might get it, too)
--Some types of medicine
--Greasy makeup
Who is at risk for Acne vulgaris?
What are some precautions against Acne vulgaris?
When to seek urgent medical care
Treatment options
Where to find medical care for Acne vulgaris
Directions to Hospitals Treating Acne vulgaris