The reason we get acne is because oil glands become overactive and pores become blocked. Acne is a condition that afflicts boys, girls, women and men. Although most prevalent in our teenager years when hormones are most active, acne will rage whenever the timing is most inappropriate.

Heredity factors can also play a role in who gets acne, who doesn’t, and how severe the acne breakouts become. Those who are genetically inclined to acne will often get more severe cases than those who are simply going through their “growing-up” acne phase. Hereditary sufferers also have a more difficult time clearing up acne blemishes.

Fighting Acne

Blemishes that occur on the skin are often unsightly and embarrassing, so acne prevention and treatment should be our first line of defense and what we focus on most. Keeping your hands away and reducing the amount of face rubbing you do helps prevent acne, because it limits the amount of dirt and oils we push into and contaminate our pores with. Proper health is also very important. Diet, exercise and sleep all help to reduce stress, which can cause all types of health issues including acne.

Using a mild soap to keep your face clean is a great start at preventing acne breakouts. If you have an outbreak, home remedies, over the counter medications and prescription medications can all help. There are also several topical creams and soaps used to treat acne. Most can be found in the cosmetics department of your grocery store or pharmacy section. Benzoyl peroxide creams, vitamin A and zinc are all used to help treat acne.

For more severe cases a prescription oral antibiotic may be prescribed along with a topical cream that is stronger than the over the counter medications. Always, always, always talk to your doctor before trying prescription treatments.