Acne is the most common skin disorder, affecting approximately 17 million Americans. Acne is most common during adolescence, affecting more than 85 percent of teenagers, and frequently continues into adulthood. It accounts for 4.8 million patient visits with their primary care providers every year. Acne is a disease of the hair follicles and oil glands in the skin. Excessive oil causes plugging of the hair fol- licle and encourages bac- terial growth on the skin.

The face and upper neck are most commonly affected, but the chest, back and shoulders may have acne as well. Typical acne lesions are called comedones. A closed comedone is what is commonly referred to as a "whitehead" and an open comedone is called a "blackhead." Patients can also suffer from large deep nodules called cysts.

Over the years many myths have been started about acne. Chocolate and greasy foods do not cause acne. There have been many studies done trying to find a link between a patient's diet and acne, but none of them have found a solid link between the two. Other myths are that tanning clears up acne. This is not true; it only masks acne.

There are many products available for treatment of acne. Generally speaking, comedonal acne takes longer to treat than the more severe cystic acne. Most treatments take at least three months before patients start to see real improvement in their skin. The most recently publicized prescription treatment for acne is Accutane. This medicine is reserved for patients with severe cystic acne or those who have exhausted all other options. It is a highly regulated medication due to its possible side effects. This medication should only be prescribed by a licensed Dermatologist.

You can read more about acne and the treatments on www.Familydoctor.org or call me at the Trinity Mother Frances Clinic, 903-849-5756.