Definition of Acne vulgaris

Acne vulgaris: The common form of acne seen most
often in teenagers or young adults, acne vulgaris is the
result of overactive oil glands that become plugged, red,
and inflamed. Most outbreaks of acne can be treated by
keeping the skin clear and avoiding irritating soaps,
foods, drinks, and cosmetics. Severe acne and acne in those
who are prone to scarring (see the article on Keloid) can be treated with
topical creams and anti-inflammatory medications. Skin
damaged by acne can be improved with treatment by a
dermatologist or facial technologist. Techniques include
dermabrasion ("sanding"), removal of scar tissue via laser,
and chemical peels. Acne is also called pimples.

Acne:
Localized skin inflammation as a result of
overactivity of the oil glands at the base of hair follicles. Acne
happens when oil (sebaceous) glands come to life
around puberty, when these glands are stimulated by male
hormones that are produced in the adrenal glands of both
boys and girls.
The oil glands, which are located just
beneath the skin, continuously produce and secrete oil
through openings in the skin. The oil lubricates and
protects the skin. Under certain circumstances, cells
that are close to the openings of the oil glands block the
openings. This causes a buildup of oil underneath the
skin.
Bacteria, which live in everyone's skin but
generally mind their own business, feast on this oil,
multiply, and cause the surrounding tissues to become
inflamed.
If the inflammation is right near the surface, you get a
pustule; if it's deeper, a papule (pimple); deeper still
and it's a cyst. If the oil breaks though to the surface,
the result is a " whitehead." If the oil becomes oxidized
(that is, acted on by oxygen in the air), the oil changes
from white to black, and the result is a "blackhead."


Acne is also called pimples.