Do I have acne?

Okay, I'm a 14-year-old female. I have been getting my period since December 2008. I am never really under great stress, except about like medium-severe stress during difficult school topics or projects. I would say I get about an average of 1-3 pimples every other week. Sometimes, I can go about a week or two without any. Is that bad?

By the way, what is technically considered "acne"? I have never really been sure. Please help and thanks for your answers in advance :-)

[deeneezy]

Hi there,

I wouldn't really consider what you have described as acne. Acne sufferers dream of going 2 weeks with clear skin, as they generally never have occasions where their skin is clear!

Acne is caused by androgens (male hormone in both sexes), when there is too much of it or that the person is sensitive, this causes the skin to cause too much sebum (oil), the skin then becomes very blocked and oily and bacteria feed from this oil causing spots - acne. Acne can also be very scarring to the skin.

Generally acne is not really that responsive to face washes and creams that they sell in shops, which are made for 'spots', and usually acne sufferers need to get treatment such as antibiotics from their GP or a dermatologist (skin specialist)

here is a picture of someone with mild acne: http://library.med.utah.edu/kw/derm/mml/24820022.jpg

And here is a picture of someone with more severe acne: http://www.medscape.com/content/1997/00/40/88/408876/art-wh3076.fig4.jpg

Acne sufferes generally have these 'spots' on their back and/or chest aswell.

It sounds to me like you may be getting this odd few pimples once a week or 2, due to hormone changes as you are maturing and getting older, this is common and perfectly healthy. I wouldn't really say that it is acne.

I think you are a lucky thing, i would love to get them only every other week or so! ;o)

In saying that, if you find that your skin does get worse and is difficult to clear iup, dont be afraid to ask for further advice from a GP. But for now i wouldnt worry =)

Best Wishes x