Acne is a common skin condition that normally is found on the face, but can also be found on other parts of the body, like the neck, back and shoulders. Acne, also known as pimples, normally affects teenagers.

Although acne is normally associated with teenagers, it can also have an affect on adults. Acne affects both men and women of every race.

Vulgaris is the proper name for Acne. Acne symptoms are lesions on the skin that break out. These lesions may be cysts, blackheads, or whiteheads.

During puberty, the body produces sebum, an oily substance. Sebum keeps the skin and hair lubricated and soft. However, it is overproduced during puberty. The excess oil then clogs the pores and normally leaves the skin feely especially oily.

A higher production of follicle cells is another reason for acne during puberty. The dead cells quickly build up, while combining with sebum to form whiteheads. This is a perfect combination for bacteria to grow. Whereby, red, swollen pimples form.

Of young adults between the ages of 12 and 24, roughly 85% of them are affected by acne. Of those, approximately 25% have acne on areas other than the face, such as the neck and back. Approximately 40% of acne sufferers seek medical treatment.

The area of the face known as the �T-Zone� is most commonly affected by acne. The T-Zone consists of the chin, nose and forehead. Other areas of the face, such as the cheeks can also be affected by acne. The back is the second most common area of the body to have acne breakouts, followed by the neck, the chest and the shoulders.

The good news with acne is that by the time you reach your 20's, most people no longer suffer from acne. However, there are some instances where acne will affect people throughout their adult life. Adults, who have never suffered from acne before, may actually suffer from acne once they become an adult.

Acne is a common skin condition. By understanding why acne occurs, you can help to get rid of it. Although acne generally affects teenagers, adults can also suffer from it.