Zits

An unsightly eruption of the face, chest, back and shoulders, usually the effect of impaired digestion, and most commonly troublesome between the ages of fifteen and twenty-one years. It is characterized frequently by disagreeable pimples rising over the glands of the skin whose proper function is the secretion of oily matter, or by "blackheads" sluggishly retained in the glands, These can be removed by pressure or squeezing, when the expressed fatty matter has the appearance of a white maggot. Acne may be overcome by the promotion of healthy digestion, and by frequent use of reliable antiseptic soap and plenty of water; or it may be remedied bh the persistent application of a lotion prepared from glycerine flowers of sulphur spirits of wine, and ekder flower water applied nightly before retiring. Acne, simply means pimple, acne rosacea, one of a rosy color, acne punctata, a maggot like-pimple.

Acne is a condition in which the sebaceous (oil) glands become over-active and inflamed, causing a breakout of pimples on the skin. In severe acne, infections and abscesses form in the oil glands. The disease may leave scars if there are large abscesses.

Acne develops mainly on the face, but it may also appear on the chest and back. It can occur at any age, but it develops most often during adolescence. Doctors believe that during adolescence, hormones produced by the adrenal glands increase the activity of the oil glands. Doctors do not know why some children develop acne and other children do not.

Severe acne and consequent scarring can be reduced if the child carefully cares for his skin and watches his diet:

• The affected skin should be cleansed thoroughly at least three or four times a day with warm water and soap. This cleansing helps keep the openings of the oil glands from becoming clogged.


• The child should not squeeze or pinch pimples.


• He should keep his hair clean.


• He should not take any medicine unless his doctor advises it. For example, iodides and bromides should be avoided.

A balanced diet is also important. The child should not eat fatty foods, nuts, seafood, cola drinks, chocolate, and sweets such as pie, cake, candy, ice cream, or cookies. Milk should be kept to a minimum.

Encourage your child to follow his doctor's instructions. The doctor may advise antibiotics, astringent lotions, vitamins, special surgery, or exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet rays. A happy environment, proper exercise, and adequate rest are also important. With proper care, the child's acne should become less severe or disappear after a few years.

Many young people worry excessively about skin disorders and become discouraged while trying to clear them up. You can reassure them by pointing that acne is normal-although annoying-part of growing up.