Return to Home page
HomeThe characteristics and problems of young skinGeneral InformationPrintable version

The characteristics and problems of young skin

Acne has existed throughout human history, although it seems to have become more common in the past 50 years.

Acne prevents many young people from fully enjoying life between the ages of about 11 and 18. Today it affects approximately 80% of teenagers, causing an embarrassment that can no longer be ignored.

For this reason, Researchers have been investigating the problem of acne, and have identified the major factors behind it.

Acne is a skin problem that most often appears at puberty. It affects the pilosebaceous follicles.


Acne is a combination of :

1) Excessive sebum production, which makes the skin shiny: a condition called hyperseborrhea.
2) The thickening of the skin in certain places: the pores become clogged, trapping sebum within; this is called keratinization disorders.
3) Closely related conditions of inflammation and infection, which encourage the appearance of visible red pimples on the skin's surface.

 

Acne is aggravated by :
Tobacco
Certain oral contraceptives
Stress


 
French version |  Home  |  Legal notices   |  Site map  |  Contacts  |
|   Merck  |