Acne

Acne is a common disorder of the hair follicle and sebaceous gland (oil gland). It commonly affects 16-18 year olds, but can also affect children and adults. It tends to improve and resolve after age 25, but especially in females, it can persist. It can affect the face and/or the back. Acne is caused by a combination of factors that include:

• genetics
• natural hormones in teenagers
• medications like steroids, anti-convulsants, hormones
• occlusive cosmetics
• high environmental humidity
• polycystic ovarian disease

Treatment of Acne
This may include one or several approaches:
Mild acne

• topical anti-acne gels, washes 
• oral contraceptive pill

• Phototherapy
• Laser therapy

Moderate to severe acne

• all the above measures
• antibiotics 
• anti-hormonal therapy
• isotretinoin