What Do You Know About Acne?

Eighty percent of Americans between ages 11 and 30 have at least one outbreak of acne, making it the most common skin disease in this country, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS). Test your knowledge of acne by taking this multiple-choice quiz.

1. Acne is a disease that affects which of these?

A. Epidermis B. Endodermis C. Hair follicles D. Hair shaft

2. Which of these is the most common area for acne to occur?

A. Face B. Back C. Shoulders D. All of the above

3. Which of these factors causes acne?

A. Poor hygiene B. Poor diet C. Dirty skin D. None of the above

4. Which of these factors promotes blackheads?

A. Bacteria B. Chocolate C. Clogged follicles D. Dirty skin

5. Which of these hormones stimulates acne in people between ages 11 and 14?

A. Androgen B. Estrogen C. Endorphin D. Norepinephrine

6. Acne can be effectively treated with which of the following?

A. Topical skin cleansers B. Oral antibiotics C. Oral vitamin A derivatives D. All of the above

7. Some cosmetics and toiletries aggravate acne. What kind of cosmetic is least likely to do so?

A. Noncomedogenic (or oil-free) B. Lip products with moisturizers C. Gel hair products D. None of the above

8. How does exposure to sunlight affect acne?

A. Clears skin B. Increases oil production C. Makes scars less visible D. All of the above

9. What percentage of adults suffers from active acne?

A. 20 percent B. 30 percent C. 40 percent D. 50 percent