A simple definition of acne is that it is a disease of the sebaceous follicle, primarily affecting the face, back, and chest. It is caused by an inflammation of the oil glands that varies in severity, depending upon how much obstruction exists within the follicle.1 The challenge of acne emerges during a period in life when the first recipients of this outbreak are normally growing…

Acne is, by far, the most common skin condition in the United States. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 85 percent of people will have it at some point in their life, whether that be during the teenage years – the decade when acne is most expected – or during the 20s, 30s, 40s, or even 50s and beyond.

During a recent three-country lecture tour, I happened to attend a conference where a video was being presented, showing a local skin guru performing an acne treatment on what appeared to be a teenaged boy.His face, back, and chest were infested with papules and pustules, and the therapist was very professional appearing with her standard softening of the cuticle cuirass with various cleansers, steam, and…

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne affects over 40 million Americans. Over $2.2 billion was spent in acne treatment alone in 2004. As skin care professionals, we know that acne is not limited to teenagers; more adult women are experiencing acne symptoms as a result of hormonal imbalances.