HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Acne
What Happens
Acne develops most often in the teen and young adult years. During this time, both males and females usually produce more Reference testosterone Opens New Window than at any other time in life. This hormone causes oil glands to produce more oil (sebum). The extra oil can clog pores and cause acne. Bacteria can grow in this mixture. And if the mixture leaks into nearby tissues, it causes swelling, redness, and pus (pimples).
Acne usually gets better in the adult years when your body produces less testosterone. Still, some women have Reference premenstrual Opens New Window acne flare-ups well into adulthood.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference February 3, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology |
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