When people use the words acne, pimples, or zits they are normally referring to acne vulgaris which literally means "common acne".

Acne is a disease that causes inflammations in the skin when the pilosebaceous units (pores) experience changes. The gland secretes excessive oils that, when combined with dead skin cells that occur naturally, block hair follicles. The oil secretions then begin to build up beneath the blocked poor and provide a perfect breeding ground for skin bacteria to multiply uncontrollably. In response to the bacterial infection, the skin inflames, causing the acne we see all around us.

The areas most affected by acne are the chest, back, shoulders, upper arms, and especially the face.

Scientists do not know exactly why people get acne, however there are several factors agreed to be directly linked with acne:

1)Hereditary

2)Hormonal activity

3)Stress

4)Hyperactive sebaceous glands

5)Accumulation of dead skin cells

6)Bacteria in the pores

7)Skin irritation

8)Steroids

9)Medication containing halogens

10)High levels of chlorine compounds

There have been many myths about what causes acne.

1)Diet: In recent studies, scientists have shown that diet does NOT affect acne.

2)Hygiene: The bacteria and dead skin are far beneath the pores, too far to be washed away with soaps and water.

3)Sexual conduct: Some say that having a sexual relationship will get rid of acne...it doesn't!

There are many ways to get rid of acne, both over the counter, and by prescription.

1)Salicylic and Glycolic acid: Both of these acids encourage the skin to "peel" off its first layer, essentially exfoliating the skin. The idea behind salicylic and gycolic acid is that if the dead skin is cleared immediately, there is no way it can clog the pores, causing acne. The acid also kills some of the bacteria in the pores while exfoliating. These treatments are normally available over the counter.

2)Benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl Peroxide is used as an antibacterial compound. Its main purpose is to kill the bacteria that cause acne. However, it does not effectively stop pre-existing acne. Benzoyl peroxide is an oxidizer (like bleach); because of this, it normally causes rashes and redness. One good thing is that since it is an oxidizer, the bacteria wont normally generate immunity or resistance to the treatment.

3)Antibiotics: Antibiotics are used both orally and topically to kill the bacteria that cause the infection. There are many problems with antibiotics. For one, the birth control pill does not work when antibiotics are being used. The topical antibiotics feel thick and slimy, so use on body parts other than the face may seem awkward to the user. The oral pill has a plethora of side effects, from upset stomach to vomiting. Acne bacteria are also starting to develop an immunity to the antibiotics.

4)Laser: The newest form of acne treatment is laser therapy. In laser therapy, a strong blue or red laser is aimed at the acne. The laser causes the bacteria to produce free radicals, which, over a period of time, kill them. The FDA has licensed the treatment and agreed that it is safe and effective. Some side effects of laser include dry and itchy skin, redness, and rashes. However, laser is thought to be one of the best treatments on the market at this time.

The best way to get rid of acne is to use the above treatments in conjunction with your body's natural healing process.