Acne is a disease which can occur infants between the ages of one and six months, however, becomes a common problem in the pre-teen and teenage years of life. The main areas of involvement are the face, shoulders, back and chest. Foods such as sugar and chocolate, soaps, and environmental factors have little to do with causing acne or with having an effect on its course. A family history of acne is a strong factor. Excessive, and possibly abnormal sebum is produced, plugging the glands, irritating them, and exposing them to common skin bacteria resulting in more inflammation and infection.
Blackheads are the simplest of acne lesions.
As more and more skin elements are deposited in this swelling, it enlarges. This makes it more susceptible to inflammation and infection, and, if not controlled, may lead to scarring. These scars are initially reddened due to lots of blood vessels in them from the inflammation. In time, many will fade back into normal skin color. These acne nodules suggest the need for medical attention.