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.
Simple truths about pimples

Acne :: Simple truths about pimples
For adolescents, acne is more than mere pimples - it's a social nightmare. Dr K.N. Agarwal, Chairman (Paediatrics), Metro Group of Hospitals, tells us why it occurs and how it can be avoided.
* Acne first appear during puberty, when sex hormones stimulate more oil production in the skin pores. Excess oil and the cells lining the skin pore 'plug' together and block the pores, resulting in blackhead or whitehead pimples.
* Simple washing and scrubbing don't help. Neither does pinching and pricking the pimple as it delays healing and leaves a scar behind.
* Avoid using cosmetics or hair oil as they may worsen the condition by clogging skin pores.
* Using a regular face wash with glycerin helps clear the skin of pimples in mild cases.
* Avoid make-up. If you have to, use oil-free and non-acnegenic moisturisers would help keep the skin's oil component low.
* Pimples generally subside after adolescence. But if the condition is severe, consult a dermatologist.
(
Acne :: Simple truths about pimples published at
SpiritIndia on Saturday, March 22, 2003)