Acne is one of the most common problems that prompt people to
seek the help of a dermatologist. Teenagers are not the only
ones affected by this disfiguring skin condition. Up to 30% of
diagnosed cases occur in people over the age of 25. Some are
forced to deal with breakouts in their forties, fifties and even
beyond. It's not a pretty picture. Fortunately, there are
treatments that can help manage this common skin condition.
Overproduction of sebum is a primary cause of acne. Sebum is an
oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands on the skin.
Sebum production is affected by hormone fluctuations, offering a
partial explanation as to why the condition is more prevalent
among teenagers. Inside hair follicles on the surface of the
skin, cells are continually turning over. New cells are produced
while others die and slough off. When dead skin cells are not
able to slough off at a healthy rate, they can stick together
and clog pore walls. Bacteria can take up residence in the
blocked pores and feed on the seb