A condition of the skin of which blackheads and pimples are the significant signs. It occurs most often in boys and girls between ages 12 and 25. Specialists in conditions affecting the skin relate the acne to the constitutional structure of the person, causing his skin to secrete much oil, also to secondary infections by germs, the eating of large amounts of sugars, and occasional disturbances of the secretions of the glands, especially the sex glands. Sometimes the taking of certain drugs produces acne, as is particularly the case with iodine. Various kinds of acne are defined, the most common being acne vulgaris, which merely means the common kind of acne.
Successful treatment depends on determining definitely the nature of the condition and on encouraging the function of the skin, through perspiration, and stretching aided often by some light or ultraviolet rays. The spots of infection at the blackheads may be removed, and the doctor prescribes ointments, pastes or lotions which will cause mild peeling of the skin. The sugars in the diet are restricted, and if special hormones are needed they also are prescribed by the doctor. Since outbursts of acne follow mental excitement, it is well to practice good psychotherapy in such cases.
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