The True Cause of Acne

It must be stated up front, the exact cause for acne is unknown. Despite endless research nothing has ever been isolated as the primary cause for acne development. Keep this in mind however; doctors and researchers have at least drawn some conclusions as to what risk factors are involved and which of those ultimately contribute to acne development. According to many researchers the primary contributors are hormones and genetics, but this cannot account for every case. In some instances other factors like medication, types of cosmetics, and some aspects of one’s hygiene regimen can create conditions where acne is more likely to form. Environment can also be a catalyst. Those working with certain chemicals, or who are exposed to greases and oils have a greater chance of developing acne because those substances can themselves clog pores.

Hormones

With the onset of puberty, the human body begins to produce hormones known as androgens or male sex hormones, in both boys and girls. These androgens cause sebaceous glands which are found in hair follicles, e.g., pores of the skin, to enlarge and become over stimulated. Extra oil or sebum produced by the sebaceous glands mixe with dead skin cells and bacteria from the skin's surface and this blocks pores. Within these blocked pores the bacterium multiplies and causes inflammation. All of this leads to the lesions that are associated with acne.

Teenagers are the most common sufferers of acne, solely because of hormonal changes that are associated with puberty. Current statistics indicate nearly 85% of people will develop acne at some point in their life between the ages of 12 and 25.

It’s also important to note that hormonal changes related to menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and even menopause have been shown to be contributors the creation of acne. Also, as women are beginning or ending their use of birth control, at those times hormonal fluctuations that can occur which can cause acne in some women. Fluctuations in the hormones of adults, both men and women, can cause increases in the production of sebum. Many people are susceptible to acne because of the link to hormonal changes.

Genetics

Heredity or genetics is another factor that can contribute to acne development. Many researchers believe that the predisposition to develop acne can be inherited from parents. Numerous studies have demonstrated links between people presently suffering from acne and family history. Strictly speaking, acne is not an inherited disorder, at least not in the medical sense of the word. But, it is true that acne is much more common in children of parents who have had, or still have acne than those who do not. Research is still ongoing in this area but there is little doubt the research will continue to yield new information and possibly deeper genetic causes might be found.
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Medication
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As previously stated, the side effects of certain drugs can cause acne. Examples would include: barbiturates, anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medication, lithium and certain forms of steroids.

Heavy or oily costmetics

With certain cosmetics, their ingredients can affect the structure of hair follicles and lead to over-production of sebum, which can clogs the pores. Over-abrasive cleansing Astringent facial products can dry the skin out which can cause the body to overproduce sebum to compensate. The use of harsh exfoliators can damage existing spots and spread infection.

Acne Flare Up Factors

There are also several other factors that can cause existing acne to flare up and create more problems. A small list of factors is included in the following paragraphs so that our understanding of acne becomes clearer and we will, hopefully, obtain a greater insight into the causes and elements that make this disorder an inconvenient and uncomfortable thing to endure.

Pressure from helmets or hats, backpacks, tight clothing

If there is direct pressure against the skin, as is the case when helmets, or hats, or when a backpack is pressing down against shoulders, then the potential for irritation and acne breakouts are real. Friction or pressure can cause irritation affecting the pores and causing acne to flare up.

Environmental irritants

If a person works in an auto repair garage or in a factory, certain chemicals present in those environments can actually cause acne flare-ups, and possibly lead to new outbreaks. Oils, for example, when in contact with skin over a long period can clog pores, or at least irritate the skin.

Pollution can have much the same effect on the skin, clogging pores and creating infections.

Heavy scrubbing of skin

Picking at or squeezing blackheads and whiteheads can cause the infection to move deeper into the skin which can lead to scarring.

Diet

While no foods have been scientifically linked to the cause of acne, it is proven that certain foods can be cause acne flare-ups.

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