Many of us, as teenagers, have suffered the dread of acne. Whiteheads, blackheads and the red, swollen, pus-containing lesions we call pimples is a disease common in adolescents called acne vulgaris. Eighty percent of adolescents experience it. Mild acne is believed to be a 'normal' phase of puberty, continuing throughout the teen years.

Severe acne vulgaris cases can be highly traumatic to a teenager, leaving life-long emotional and physical scars. Severe acne has significant impact on the way teenagers view themselves. Consequences can include anger, social withdrawal, embarrassment, poor body image, depression, low self-esteem and self-confidence and discouragement. Unless it receives a holistic treatment, entering adulthood will most likely not imply the end of severe acne. It is a signal that there is something happening within the adolescent that requires to be treated on an emotional as well as a physical level.

During puberty (between 11 and 14 years old) and throughout the adolescence years, increased androgen hormone's levels stimulate the sebaceous glands to grow and produce more sebum. When there is excess sebum production, the follicle can become plugged. Also during adolescence, the skin cells of the follicle lining shed more quickly and can form sticky clumps. Bacteria and dead skin cells can combine with the sebum in the blocked pore.

One kind of bacteria specifically involved in acne is Proprionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). Everyone has P. acnes living in their skin; even individuals who don't suffer acne. The sebum that is discharged to the skin is used by P. acnes as food. However, when sebum clogs the sebaceous glands, the P. acnes multiply quickly and break the sebum down into irritating fatty acids that cause an immune reaction. the result is inflammation, with redness, swelling, and pain.

To cleanse an acne-prone face, wash it gently twice a day. Rinse carefully using warm water and use a clean soft towel to pat dry. Do not use a washcloth to scrub or use harsh, high pH abrasive cleansers or soaps. Too much friction can worsen acne. You can obtain good results using mild calendula soap. Don't over wash your face because this can make it dry and irritated. Skin must maintain the adequate pH levels to ensure a smooth complexion.

Beware of skin care products that contain chemical preservatives, fragrance or coloring agents. These chemicals can worsen the problem. If applying cosmetics, use water-based, oil-free foundations sparingly and wash off thoroughly every night. Look for biological products made with ingredients that are not likely to cause or aggravate acne. Finally, use a nonscented moisturizer. If your skin is dry, it produces more oil and the oil is more likely to get accumulated in pores.

A new acne skin care product is the latest answer for all your dermal ailments, including scars and imperfections. Its biological ingredients ensure a safe and promising skin regeneration effect.