The severity of acne increases and, typically, reaches its peak around the ages of 17 to 19. For most people, acne tends to go away by the time they reach their mid-20s; however, very sensitive people may continue to have the disorder until they reach their 40s.

Hormonal changes related to pregnancy or menstrual periods can also cause or contribute to acne. This is also the case with environmental irritants such as pollution, intense heat, humidity or cold.

Harmful diets, lack of hygiene and uncontrolled sex drive have all been said to cause acne. But none of these have been proven.

Family history, an excessively oily skin and increased hormone secretion are all probable causes of acne.

Stress, birth control pills and corticosteroids have also been blamed.

The production of male sex hormones (androgens) increases in both girls and boys, which can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. The increased production of sebum makes the openings of the sebaceous glands narrower, which prevents the sebum from getting out. Meanwhile, the sebum production continues regardless.

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What are the symptoms?

The first symptoms are small, tender, red spots that later turn into pimples containing degraded fatty acids. The inflammation disappears over a few days or weeks, depending on the severity.

Severe acne can cause scars which will never disappear. Acne can also cause psychological stress and be socially disabling. An early effective treatment is therefore imperative.

What can make acne worse?

• Working in a damp environment with oil, grease and other chemicals.
• Squeezing or picking at the pimples.
• Menstrual periods.

• Certain medicines and chemicals

What can a person with acne do, to make the condition better?

• Wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser. Make sure you wash your skin whenever it becomes sweaty. Do not scrub your face as this will only make your acne worse.
• Avoid hairstyles in which the hair is constantly touching your face. Shampoo your hair regularly.
• Do not squeeze or pick at the pimples. This makes them worse and may cause scarring.
• Avoid exposing your skin to too much cold, heat and sunlight. Sunlight may improve your acne for a while, but it won’t cure it. Too much exposure to sunlight can lead to burning and skin cancer.
• Use a water-based moisturiser. Greasy or oily creams and foundations block the pores and may cause pimples.
• No scientific research has shown that certain foods can cause acne, but if you notice that spots increase after you eat certain things, it makes sense to avoid them.
• Choose a sensible, varied diet, drink lots of water and exercise regularly. If you feel good, your skin will feel good too.
• While shaving, Gel should be used instead of creams.

When the condition is more severe, or when it is resulting in scars, or when one is doubtful whether it is a case of acne, then it is most advisable to consult a homoeopathic specialist. Most of the prescribed drugs act by reducing the inflammation ( like Belladonna , Hepar sulph , Merc sol , Silecia  )and infection ( like Staphylococcinum , Gun Powder 3x )normalizing the shedding of skin cells in hair follicles and reducing the secretion of sebum (Antium Crud, Radium Bromide, Kali Brom ). The specialist may also treat scars by a technique called dermabrasion, which is basically like sandpapering the skin.