What is acne? "Acne is an inflammatory disease of the skin, caused by changes in the pilosebaseous units (skin structures consisting of a hair follicle and its associated sebaceous gland). The most common form of acne is known as "acne vulgaris", which means common acne." (Wikipedia)

Acne data:

Acne is nearly a universal skin disease in western society.

Adolescents - 79% - 95% are affected

25 and older - 40% - 54% have some degree of facial acne

Middle age - 12% of women and 3% of men

Treating acne depends on the type and severity of your acne. There are numerous acne treatments available today that help combat acne breakouts. Also, what works for a friend may not work for you. You may have to keep trying different methods and acne products.

I had a friend who tried every possible home acne remedy, acne treatment and acne solution she and her mother could think up. Some were very strange such as using a carrot mask. They actually pureed carrots and poured the concoction on her face. Needless to say none of those home acne remedies worked.

I found that when acne broke out on my face the best acne treatment was to gently, and I repeat - gently - wash the acne area twice a day with warm water and soap. This helped to kill the bacteria. And please note that steady improvements in your skin condition takes time. Don't expect an over night acne solution.

For a more stronger case of an acne outbreak I found that proper skin care, such as gently washing my face twice a day with soap and warm water combined with a few over the counter acne cleansers went a long way to fighting acne.

Acne cleansers are used to remove oils, sweat and dirt from the skin surface. The most popular over the counter anti bacteria killer is benzoyl peroxide. Another thing you can do is reduce oils by using a gentle astringent toner to wipe the oils away.

There are hundreds of over the counter acne medicines available. Choosing the best one for you takes time and some research. For over the counter treatments always remember to read the labels and instructions. This helps you determine if the product is right for you.

For more severe cases of acne the best thing to do is always go to a dermatologist. A good dermatologist will subscribe the acne treatment that is best suited to you.

(c) By Dorothy Dunnawaye