Page 55 -- SOME COMMON SKIN PROBLEMS

Acne Acne can affect all age groups, from a few months after birth to old age. During puberty, virtually all boys and 90% of girls will have some spots and pimples, which are usually mild forms of acne; nearly 85% of people aged between 12 and 25 will have had some acne.    The psychological effects of acne can be severe in some people, who may feel disfigured and unattractive because of the eruptions on their skin.    Many factors are concerned in the development of acne, including a hereditary      The early stages of acne: start using a specialised cleanser every day.   predisposition and the presence of male hormones (in both boys and girls), which leads to increased sebum production and the presence on the skin of otherwise harmless bacteria called Proprionibacterium acnes. These multiply deep in the hair follicle and produce inflamed pus-filled spots. Treatment for acne Prevention is better than cure!    The main aim of the treatment of acne is to prevent new spots appearing on the skin. Getting rid of existing spots is much more difficult: people having treatment are often disappointed because their spots don't disappear quickly. Acne sufferers need a great deal of patience!    A regular cleansing routine using specially formulated products (available from pharmacists and retail outlets) can help to remove surface sebum and the bacteria associated with acne. If these products are conscientiously used on a daily basis they can help to reduce the number of spots that will occur in the future.    People who already have mild to moderate acne should use products specifically formulated for this condition: these contain special ingredients for the prevention of spots, such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which remove