Acne and the Adolescent

It is very rare to go through life without getting even one pimple, white head, or black head. As a matter of fact, studies show nearly 100% of the worlds population get at least an occasional pimple, white head, or black head. These studies also show that acne occurs most often between the ages of twelve and twenty.

Developing acne at a very young age or even later in live is not that uncommon. But most cases of acne are more prevalent in our adolescent years. It is in these younger years that hormone levels are elevated and stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce larger amounts of sebum (an oily substance.) Sebaceous glands are glands that are attached to the hair follicles.

The excessive amount of sebum clogs or plugs the follicles, which is what cause the pimple or acne to develop. It will begin as redness or as a lesion which eventually turns into pimples.

Acne generally begins to develop at around the age of ten to thirteen and can last for ten or more years. In some young people, who have severe acne, the development of blackheads can follow, and can last up to five or more years. Although most adolescent acne clears up between the ages of twenty to twenty-five, severe cases may not clear up until, well into their thirties.

Knowing that acne can last up to ten years or more can be emotionally devastating to the adolescent, especially a teenager. They begin to feel they will never be able to get a girlfriend or boy friend, their life is over, as they cannot show their face in public. They almost always get depressed and feel lowered self-esteem and lack of confidence.

With medical advancements made every day there is no reason that acne cannot be cleared up with proper treatment. Once treatment has started and the acne begins to clear up the emotional turmoil will begin to dissipate and the self esteem and confidence will return. Starting treatment as soon as possible can also help to deter scarring that is associated with acne problems.

If you are suffering from acne, whether severely or just a mild case, today’s adolescent acne treatments can help you clear it up much faster than years ago for a treatment option that works, click here. The only thing you have to lose is two more minutes of your time and acne.