Acne Medicine & Acne Treatment

Close to 17 million people in the United States have some form of acne, making it the most common skin condition. Acne is not a serious health threat, but severe acne can lead to disfiguring, permanent scarring, which can be very upsetting to people who are affected by the disorder. Severe acne can become embarrassing and lead to anxiety and even depression.

The exact causes of acne are unknown, but dermatologists believe it results from several related factors. One important factor is an increase in male hormones called androgens. These hormones increase in both boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills can also cause acne.