Acne vulgaris (or acne) is a major barrier for people who want a clear and glowing complexion. Too often people leave acne without treatment, considering it a minor problem. Not treating acne can lead to more problems, such as skin discoloration, permanent scarring and social problems. These skin issues can be fixed with the right skin care therapy and proper skin care products.

Acne Causes

The root of acne is found in the hair follicles, deep beneath the surface of the skin. The follicles, whose walls are lined with skin cells, produce oil (sebum) thanks to the sebaceous glands they contain. Usually the skin cells that line the follicle are shed and brought to the skin's surface by the sebum and then washed away. Sometimes these dead skin cells stick to each other and block the pore.

Beneath the plug, a sac is formed (known as a micro comedone) that contains oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria can grow freely in this environment, feeding on the dead skin cells and oil for fuel. As this sac continues growing, whiteheads (closed comedones) and black heads (open comedones) will form. The body will send more cells to the area from the immune system to fight the infection in more serious cases, filling the sac with more cells. A nodule (papule or pustule) or cyst will develop after further inflammation, causing pain.

More Acne Causes

Acne breakouts can also be triggered by stress and simply heredity. Acne can also be exacerbated by diet. To cover marks caused by acne, women apply heavy makeup. Alas, the makeup only triggers more acne. Strong washing of the skin with rubbing, scrubbing and the use of abrasive sponges or puffs can also worsen or cause acne. People who use pomades and hair oils, specifically black women, may see acne breakouts form along the hairline and forehead areas.

Deal with Acne with These Tips

1. Don't try to squeeze blackheads or whiteheads, popping them can lead to further infection. Picking at acne, while in its second phase, can lead to scarring. If necessary, your doctor will eliminate the comedones with sterile instruments.

2. Many people think that dirt and sweat cause acne. Actually, the dark dots in the center of blackheads are not filled with dirt; they are filled with oxidized sebum. Acne is made worse by scrubbing at blemishes too roughly. Wash your face with a cleanser specifically formulated for acne twice a day, and remember to be gentle when drying.

3. Purchase products which are labeled noncomedogenic, because they are certified not to cause or worsen acne. Cosmetics and skin care products with this label should be the only products that you use on your skin. Moreover, use only natural products for your skin care.

4. Most of the acne treatments found in your local pharmacy make skin sensitive to sun. Discuss this with your dermatologist and use sun block when you are outdoors. Stay away from tanning salons.

5. Avoid cosmetic treatments unless you have spoken to your dermatologist about it. Facials can aggravate your acne.

6. Do not touch acne lesions with your hands, as this makes acne worse. In addition, try to keep hair off of your forehead.