Acne is the most widespread skin problem in the world. It is a problem that affects almost everyone at one time or another, including 90% of teenagers, 50% of adult women, and 25% of all adults. There are many misconceptions about the causes of acne as well as the treatments. Since everyone's skin reacts differently, once you know the cause of your own acne, it is much easier to find the right treatment.

Acne is caused by hormones, excess oil, uneven cell turnover, and bacteria. The majority of acne sufferers are teenagers. During puberty, the body begins to produce hormones called androgens. Androgens cause the oil glands to enlarge, causing acne breakouts. An excess amount of hormones can also occur during pregnancy and a woman's menstrual cycle.

Acne is not caused by dirt, even though blackheads may look like dirt stuck in the pore, they are actually oxidized keratin, caused by cells that didn't separate from the pore and shed from the skin. Products containing Salicylic Acid go deep into the pore, clearing excess oil and dead cells. Medicated Acne scrubs are a good way to remove excess cell buildup and prevent and treat blackheads and blemishes. They should only be used one to two times a week to prevent irritation. Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid, and Retinol are all ingredients to look for to slough off excess cell buildup on the surface of the skin.

Bacteria (Bacterium Propionibacterium Acnes) isn't something that only lives in problem skin. It is a part of the skin's natural oil maintenance system. Once a pore is clogged, the bacteria on the skin multiplies rapidly, creating red, inflammation on the skin. Benzoyl Peroxide in lower dosages is ideal for treating red, inflamed acne breakouts without causing irritation. It oxygenates the pore, ridding the skin of acne-causing bacteria.

When beginning any treatment, patience is the key to success. Since pimples begin to form two to three weeks before they appear on your skin, don't get discouraged if your treatment products don't clear breakouts immediately. It is also important to remember to continue treatment even after your acne clears to prevent future breakouts.