Acne affects more than 90% of adolescents, and nearly 50% of all adult women and 25% of all adult men face this skin disorder. Acne is prevalent in both men and women and is present in all ethnic backgrounds making it one of the most widespread conditions in the world. 

A common mistake is that only teenagers suffer from acne, however this is not true. Recent statistics suggest that the median age for patients being treated for acne has increased from approximately 20.5 to 26.5 years of age.

Fact:  People tend to over-wash their skin, scrubbing hard with abrasive cleansers. Acne is not caused by dirt or surface oil. Cleaning skin too often may aggravate acne and can cause flare-ups. Hand wash skin twice a day with a mild soap, pat dry, and use appropriate acne treatment. Click here for details about treatments.

Fact: Scientific studies have found no correlation between diet and acne breakouts. In other words, eating pizza, chocolate, or crisps will not result in a breakout in the morning. However, if you find that certain foods affect your skin negatively, which may turn out to be a food allergy, avoid them.

Fact:  Acne is a treatable condition. There is no need to wait for skin to clear up on its own. The longer you wait, the more likely your chances are of permanent scarring. If the treatment you're trying isn't working, it may be time to see a dermatologist.

Fact:  Overactive oil glands, stimulated by the hormone androgen mixing with dead skin cells, cause acne. This is particularly true during the teenage years when androgen production is at its highest.

Fact:  While acne is most prevalent in teenagers, due to androgen production during puberty, it is a condition that also affects men and women into adulthood. Some do outgrow acne. When hormone production regulates, skin clears up. But for others, acne is a lifelong battle. Don't wait for acne to disappear on its own. Treat it!

Fact:  Sensitive skin should be handled with care. Do not wash your face with abrasive soaps, don't wear tight fitting clothing or equipment, or touch your acne.

Fact:  Acne affects adults as well as teens. Androgen production is highest in the teenage years but is continuously produced in the body. The circumstances around adult acne are slightly different from that of teens, particularly for women. Women between 18 and 40 may have breakouts that occur most frequently when they are premenstrual.

Fact: Acne affects teenage boys at a higher rate than girls because of the production of the male hormone androgen. However, these figures even out in adulthood.

Fact:  While a tan may make blemishes and scars less apparent, many acne treatments make skin sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) rays. In addition, suntans cause the skin to increase sebum production to heal damaged skin, causing more acne.