Acne

Acne
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the sebaceous (oil-secreting) glands in the skin and along hair shafts become clogged and inflamed, and infected by bacteria.

What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms include whiteheads, blackheads and oiliness.

How is a diagnosis of acne made?
Acne is easily diagnosed by physical examination and medical history.

How is acne treated?
Treatment includes medication and surgery.

Acne - from Natural Standard
Acne is an inflammatory disease of the sebaceous glands (oil producing) and hair follicles of the skin that is marked by the eruption of pimples or pustules, especially on the face.

What causes acne?
Although the exact cause is not known, various factors have been identified which could lead to the development of acne.

Prevention of acne
Although it is difficult to prevent acne, certain things that could aggravate the condition should be avoided.

When to see a doctor
In most cases, acne can be treated successfully at home. However, in some situations, it is important to see your doctor.

Isotretinoin (Roaccutane)
Isotretinoin has revolusionised the treatment of acne since it became available in South Africa in 1984, according to the National Dermatology Working Group.