Acne,

 Acne, also known as common acne, is a skin condition that affects almost everyone at some point in their lives. It occurs when the skin's oil glands produce excessive sebum, leading to the blockage of hair follicles. If the follicle remains open, it forms a blackhead, and if it is closed, it forms a whitehead. These plugged pores can develop into inflamed pimples, lumps, or nodules. While acne is commonly associated with adolescence, it can also occur in adults, with about 20% of cases happening in adulthood. The condition typically starts during puberty and improves in the early 20s. Acne can affect both males and females, with teenage boys experiencing more severe cases. Women are more likely to have mild to moderate forms of acne into their 30s and beyond. Acne primarily appears on the face but can also occur on the neck, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms. Contrary to popular belief, acne is not caused by diet, hygiene, or sexual activity. Heredity and hormones play a significant role in its development, and no amount of diet or excessive cleansing can alter one's predisposition to acne

Glossary:

  • Acne: A common skin condition characterized by the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads caused by clogged hair follicles and excess oil production.
  • Sebaceous glands: Glands in the skin that produce sebum, an oily substance that helps lubricate and protect the skin.
  • Hair follicles: Small cavities in the skin from which hairs grow.
  • Plugged pores: Hair follicles blocked by a combination of sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria.
  • Blackheads: Plugged pores with open openings, appearing as small, flat spots with dark centers.
  • Whiteheads: Plugged pores with closed openings, appearing as small, flesh-colored bumps.
  • Inflammations: Swollen and tender areas resulting from infected or irritated acne lesions.
  • Pimples: Inflamed and infected acne lesions, characterized by redness, swelling, and pus.
  • Nodules: Firm swellings below the skin's surface associated with severe cases of acne, often painful and inflamed.
  • Cystic acne: Severe acne characterized by the formation of large, deep, and painful cysts or nodules.
  • Heredity: The passing on of genetic traits from parents to offspring.
  • Hormones: Chemical substances produced by the body that regulate various physiological processes, including sebum production.
  • Sebum: The oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands to moisturize and protect the skin.
  • Adolescence: The transitional period between childhood and adulthood, typically marked by puberty.
  • Puberty: The stage of development during which a child's body undergoes physical changes, including the maturation of sexual characteristics.
  • Diet: The food and drink regularly consumed by an individual.
  • Hygiene: Practices and habits related to cleanliness and personal care.
  • Sexual drive: The natural urge or desire for sexual activity.

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