Pimples and zits are a huge problem for people who want clear skin. Many times, people do not pay too much attention to their acne problem. However not treating acne can lead to skin discoloring, permanent scarring and social problems. Hyperpigmentation and acne often lead to embarrassment and frustration, but with efficient therapy, acne sufferers can have flawless skin.

What is Acne?

Deep beneath the skin's surface in the hair follicles is where we will find the root of acne. These hair follicles are lined with skin cells and contain sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing sebum, or oil. Usually the skin cells that line the follicle are shed and brought to the skin's surface by the sebum and then washed away. However, when the cells stick together instead of shedding, they form a plug or blockage.

Beneath the plug, a sac is formed (known as a micro comedone) that contains oil and dead skin cells. This is the prime setting for bacteria to grow, as they feed on the dead skin cells and oil. Whiteheads (closed comedones) and black heads (open comedones) flourish as these sacs continue to expand. The immune system will send more cells to the sac in more serious cases to battle infection, and this creates a larger comedone. A nodule (papule or pustule) or cyst will develop after further inflammation, causing pain.

More Acne Causes

Stress and heredity are also factors that contribute to acne breakouts. Diet is also a major contributor to acne. To cover marks caused by acne, women apply heavy makeup. Alas, the makeup only triggers more acne. Washing the face too roughly and using abrasive sponges and scrubs on the facial skin contributes to acne breakouts. Black women especially, who use pomades and hair oil, may see increased breakouts along the hairline and forehead areas on the face.

Acne Tips

1. Further infection is caused by picking and squeezing at pimples, blackheads and whiteheads, so don't do it. Picking at acne, while in its second phase, can lead to scarring. A dermatologist can remove comedones if necessary with the right instruments.

2. Many people think that dirt and sweat cause acne. But the truth is that blackheads are filled with oxidized sebum, not dirt. Exaggerated cleaning of the skin will not cure acne, it will aggravate the condition. Wash your face with a cleanser specifically formulated for acne twice a day, and remember to be gentle when drying.

3. Noncomedogenic solutions are certified to not cause or aggravate acne. Stick to cosmetics and skin care products that have this label. Natural products should be used for your skin care.

4. A side effect of many acne treatments is that the skin becomes extremely sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen when you are outside and speak to your doctor about this. Do not use tanning beds or tanning lamps.

5. Use cosmetic treatments like facials, only after consulting your doctor. Acne is aggravated by some facial treatments.

6. Touching acne lesions worsens the problem, so avoid doing so. Also keep your forehead from being covered by hair.

How to get rid of acne is no longer something you have to ask yourself. Remember to use natural products for your acne skin care. Understanding the acne causes allows you to beat it quicker. Remember to read all labels for skin care products and be gentle when dealing with your facial skin.