Teenage boys always having acne skin problem, however some girls and women often experience acne flare-up during the menstrual cycle or ovulation period. The truth is there is no cure for acne, however treatments can improve the condition. A dermatologist will look for acne pustules, nodules, comedones and cysts on the back, upper arms, shoulders, face and chest. A doctor is normally making the diagnosis of acne based on a simple physical examination. Question on cosmetic use, diet and family history are normally noted by the doctor.

You have to consult your doctor if you or your teenager has acne that is not controlled with over-the-counter washes or gels. You should remember that the amount of acne may not be a true gauge of the impact of the problem on a child's life. For some young people, small amounts of acne can be terribly embarrassing and bring psychologically painful to them. It is advisable to talk these things out with your teenager. Be patient with him if your child feels that this is not a problem. You should not force the child to go into acne treatment.

Acne, unfortunately, cannot be "prevented" and the tendency to develop acne is inherited. However it is helpful to remember that it develops in most people and is a normal part of maturing hormonally. Careful cleanliness can also help to lessen the effects.

Acne treatment is designed to prevent formation of new lesions and aid the healing of old ones. Acne can be treated with the following ways.

- Salicyclic acid washes - these washes help "empty" comedones.

- Benzoyl peroxide gels which are medications that applied to the skin as a thin film. They peel and dry the skin, help to clear blocked follicles and fight the growth of bacteria. Although there are some available in weaker over-the-counter lotions, your dermatologist may prescribe a stronger and more effective gel form.

- Tretinoin (Retin-A) which is applied to the skin as a gel, cream or solution and helps to clear the skin of plugged follicles by increasing the turnover of skin cells. As it also increases the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, it is suggested to apply the tretinoin with a sunscreen.

- Antibiotics such as clindamycin and erythromycin can be applied directly to the skin to reduce the growth of acne-causing bacteria.

Acne can almost always be controlled with medication, though results vary and may not be seen for weeks or months. For example, most topical medicines (treatments applied directly to the skin) work within 4-8 weeks. Tretinoin may show peak results within 3-6 months.