Approximately 45 million young adults between the ages of 12 and 24 have acne. This does not include the millions of acne patients in their 20’s and 30’s that are more likely to develop acne than their teen counterparts. Many of these people are able to manage their acne with over-the-counter treatments. However, for some, their acne is more serious and requires prescription medications. Acne typically affects young men and young women equally. Although, young men are more likely to have more severe, longer lasting forms of acne. Young women are more likely to have intermittent acne due to hormonal changes associated with their menstrual cycle and acne caused by cosmetics. There is a strong genetic predisposition to developing acne. It can be exacerbated by hormonal changes, stress associated with life responsibilities, and occasionally, poor skin care habits (see acne myths). Acne lesions are most common on the face, but they can also occur on the neck, chest, back, shoulders, scalp, upper arms and legs.