Acne is one of the most common skin disorders in America, with over 25 million people affected. Acne and pimples are caused when dead skin cells and oil combine on the face, and it is at this point that a clogged skin pore becomes an inviting home for bacteria. Once the body has detected that a foreign object or impurity has invaded, white cells are deployed to neutralize it. This reaction soon produces an acne pimple.

The two types of acne

There are commonly two kinds of pimples, blackheads and whiteheads.

• Blackheads, also known as open comedones, are caused by a blockage in the hair canal, resulting in a solidified oil buildup.
• Whiteheads, or closed comedones, occur within the sebaceous follicle (skin pore), producing a white top. Keep in mind that there’s absolutely no difference between face and body acne.

Teenage and adult acne

The idea that pimples and acne are only a teenager’s problem is misguided. For approximately 30% of teenagers afflicted with acne, the condition carries on into adulthood.

Cleansing

People susceptible to acne breakouts should wash their face regularly (at least twice a day), with a gentle cleanser that’s been specifically formulated for oily skin. It is also just as important not to over-wash the skin or scrub too hard, as doing so can over-exfoliate, dry out or irritate the skin, making the acne worse.

Shaving

While shaving itself cannot cause acne, shaving with a dull blade or the wrong type of shaving cream or gel can. Prevent your skin from getting nicked or irritated by using a sharp blade, and make sure to use high-quality shaving product. For shaving your face, we recommend Brave Soldier Brave Shave, the finest richest créme available. For body shaving we recommend Brave Soldier Shower Shave.

Extraction

Popping pimples or extracting blackheads is not a good idea. Squeezing blackheads will cause them to become inflamed and popping whiteheads will most likely push the germs and bacteria further into the skin, resulting in soreness, redness and an even worse infection, even scarring.

Scarring

Most acne does not cause scarring. To minimize the risk, it is important to maintain proper hygiene, to not attempt to pop or squeeze pimples, and if the acne gets worse, despite your best efforts, to seek treatment.

Want more in-depth information about acne and skin care? Read the full article.