Acne may form due to the clogging of pores. Pores may become clogged due to an excessive amount of androgen, a hormone that may cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge, creating an excess of sebum, or oil. Dead skin cells within pores may also be responsible for clogging the pores.

Bacteria occur naturally in pores, but when the pore becomes blocked, an excessive build up of bacteria may cause an acne flare up. Genetics may also play a role in the presence of acne. Acne symptoms may include whiteheads, blackheads and various forms of inflammatory acne. It may be found on the face, back, shoulders, neck or chest.

A whitehead may form when sebum becomes trapped under the skin, while a blackhead may form if there is a break in the skin and the sebum escapes to the surface, oxidizes and turns black. Inflammatory acne, such as cystic lesions, papules and pustules, may be painful if they become infected and may even leave acne scars.

There may be a number of different potential acne treatments available for those looking to find relief. Some treatments require a topical application, while others may be taken orally.

Keeping the skin clean by cleansing twice a day with soap or an acne wash may prove to be the best way to control acne. Many treatments include benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which may be very effective as topical treatments.

Severe acne may require antibiotics or other prescribed medications that should be discussed with a skin care professional. Birth control pills may prove to be effective as well, but should be discussed with a physician or skin care professional before beginning treatment.

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