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Acne vulgaris is more common and moresevere in males than in females. The skin
condition is triggered by changes in hor-
mones, such as testosterone and other
androgens, associated with puberty. The
rash usually subsides after adolescence, but
can occasionally persist after the age of 30
and scars may form on the skin.
Various factors may predispose an indi-
vidual to develop acne , including
genetic factors, since acne vulgaris some-
times runs in families. Stress can make the
acne worse. The condition can cause great
psychological distress, and often arises dur-
ing the period when teenagers are most
self-conscious about their appearance.
OVERACTIVITY OF SEBACEOUS GLANDS
Acne vulgaris is caused by the overproduc-
tion of an oily substance called sebum,
WHY DOES IT OCCUR?
which is secreted by the sebaceous glands
in the skin . Sebum
normally drains into the hair follicles and
flows out through the follicle openings on
the skin surface, lubricating the skin and
keeping it supple. However, excess sebum
blocks the follicles and hardens into tiny
plugs. Bacteria multiply in the blocked fol-
licles, releasing fatty acids from the sebum,
inflaming the surrounding tissue.
In some cases, the follicles may become
blocked with keratin, a tough protein that
is produced by skin cells to strengthen the
epidermis. Keratin is also a constituent
of hair and nails.
OTHER TYPES OF ACNE Less common
forms of acne include occupational acne,
which may result from exposure to certain
industrial oils; and drug-induced acne,
which may be due to prescribed drugs,
such as corticosteroids.