Michelle, all of 19 years is looking forward to the New Year party at her friend’s terrace. From the clothes to the matching shoes and bag, dangling earrings, she has everything in place. But she wakes up on the eve of the party to see a pimple on her nose which makes her feel miserable. There are many teenagers like Michelle who suffer from this extremely common skin disorder known as acne. Though adults go through the same ordeal too, it is more prevalent among the youth.
Acne is a skin ailment which basically shows up in the form of blackheads, pimples, cysts or whiteheads. The hair follicles or pores that are present in the skin contain oil glands known as sebum. These oil glands lubricate the hair and skin. During teenage years, sebum is produced in excess as a result of which the pores get clogged. This leads to growth of bacteria inside the skin cells and results in swelling and redness which ultimately grows into a disastrous pimple. Such pimples or cysts generally appear on the face, neck, shoulders and back. Acne can also occur due to the following causes:
•    Hormonal changes
•    Menstruation cycles
•    Certain medications
•    Oil based cosmetics
•    Genetic reasons
•    Stress increases sebum production
Some measures to control and prevent acne troubles:

1. It is very important to keep your skin clean. Wash your face with a cleanser or a mild soap.
2. Follow a healthy lifestyle. Avoid eating junk food, chocolates, fattening food stuffs, aerated drinks etc. as they largely contribute to acne.
3. Whenever you buy any skin care products like face wash, cosmetics, cleanser, body wash, sunscreen lotion make sure that they are oil-free. To ensure this, you must always look out for words like ‘hypoallergenic’, ‘oil-free’, or ‘non-comedogenic’.
4. If you have long hair that falls on your face and goes up to your shoulders, make sure you wash it frequently to prevent excess secretion of oil.
5. There are some medications available in the form of creams and lotions containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide which help in treating acne. However, they should be taken after consulting a doctor.
6. Some people prefer natural therapies since they are safe and devoid of any side-effects. An effective remedy is a paste of sandalwood and turmeric powder mixed with little water.

Acne on the face and shoulders is a common phenomenon especially among the youth. Once you spot any form of acne, panic should be the last thing on your mind. Worrying about it will make the condition worse. Instead handle acne with the right acne treatment like natural remedies at home and medications. Similarly, investing time in a daily skin care routine will go a long way in preventing acne troubles.
About Benzac AC:
Benzoyl peroxide marketed under the name Benzac AC is recommended by dermatologists worldwide to treat acne due to its antibacterial properties. The composition of hydrogen peroxide and benzoyl chloride eliminates the dirt present in the pores of the skin and removes the excess oil produced by the oil glands. Benzac AC is available in the form of gel and cream. Keep the following in mind while using Benzac AC.
•    Follow the instructions for usage as given on the label or as prescribed by your doctor. It is normally applied twice a day in the morning and night respectively.
•    Wash the affected areas then apply a small amount of Benzac AC. Always wash your hands before and after use.
•    In case it comes in contact with eyes, rinse immediately with water. Benzac AC might bleach hair or clothing. Be careful during application.