The National Institute of Health reports that 85% of the population between the ages of 12 and 24 develop acne. It tends to go away in the thirties although some people in their forties and fifties continue to have the disorder. Patients with moderate to severe inflammatory acne may be treated with prescription topical or oral medicines alone or in combination. Treatment goals are to heal existing lesions, stop new lesions from forming, and to prevent scarring. This also helps to minimize the embarrassment and psychological stress that accompanies a disorder like acne. Early treatment is the best way to prevent acne scars, and the Medical researchers are working on new drugs to treat acne, as with other bacterial infections, doctors are finding that over time the bacteria associated with acne are becoming resistant to certain treatments with antibiotics. The American Academy of Dermatology can provide referrals to dermatologists and offers brochures and fact sheets. For more information: American Academy of Dermatology P.O. Box 4014 Schaumburg, IL 60168-4014 Phone: 847-330-0230 or 888-462-3376 (free of charge) Fax: 847-330-0050 Website (opens in a new window)