Acne develops most often in the teen and young adult years, when both males and females usually produce more testosterone than at any other time in life.

Testosterone spurs oil glands to produce more oil, and the extra oilcan clog pores and cause acne. Bacteria can grow in this mixture, andif it leaks into nearby tissues, it causes swelling, redness, and pimples.

Acne usually lessens in the adult years when your body produces less testosterone.

Treatment depends on whether you have a mild, moderate or severe form. Sometimes your doctor will combine treatments to get the best results and to avoid developing drug resistant bacteria. For severe cases, ask your doctor to refer you to a dermatologist.

Treatment usually includes topical and oral medications.

You can also treat mild acne on your own by gentle cleansing with amild soap (such as Dove or Neutrogena), applying benzoyl peroxide (such as Benoxyl, Benzac, or Clearasil), and applying salicylic acid(such as Clearasil, Propa pH, or StriDex).

Medical procedures to reduce acne (dermabrasion, collagen injections,gelatin implants, laser resurfacing) require special training, soseek out a dermatologist trained in these procedures.