Acne is a skin condition in which the pores become clogged and inflamed, causing various types of blemishes on the face, neck, chest, or back. A number of factors contribute to acne, including problems with the shedding of dead skin cells, excess oil production, and multiplication of bacteria that normally exist in the skin.

When an acne lesion (LEE-zhun) develops, it can injure the skin and cause a scar. Squeezing or picking blemishes increases the risk of scarring. This may range from mild, red spots to deep, 'ice-pick' type scars.

There are many myths about acne. Such mistaken beliefs can keep people from treating acne properly or even direct them to behaviors that make the condition worse.

Typically, acne treatment is aimed at correcting the factors which contribute to the condition: excess oil, or sebum, (SEE-buhm) production; the improper shedding of skin cells; and the multiplication of bacteria inside the pores.

While acne usually subsides by age 25, in some individuals, it may continue or even appear during the 30's and 40's. Men can experience adult acne, but the problem is more common among women due to female hormonal changes.