Intro – Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It typically presents as various types of blemishes on the skin, including whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and sometimes deeper cysts or nodules. Acne most commonly appears on the face, chest, shoulders, and back.
Causes
Acne is a multifactorial skin condition, and its development is influenced by a combination of factors. The primary causes of acne include:
- Excess Sebum Production – Sebaceous glands in the skin produce sebum (skin oil) to keep the skin moisturised. However, in individuals with acne, these glands can produce an excessive amount of sebum, which can contribute to clogged hair follicles.
- Clogged Hair Follicles – The excess sebum produced by sebaceous glands can mix with dead skin cells and other debris. When these substances clog the hair follicles, they form a plug that creates an environment conducive to the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
- Bacteria – Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a type of bacteria that naturally resides on the skin. When hair follicles become clogged, P. acnes bacteria can multiply, leading to inflammation and the formation of acne lesions.
- Inflammation – The presence of bacteria in clogged hair follicles triggers an immune response, causing inflammation. Inflammation contributes to redness, swelling, and the development of various types of acne lesions.
- Hormonal Fluctuations – Hormonal changes, particularly an increase in androgens (male hormones), can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. Hormonal fluctuations often occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Genetics – Family history can play a role in an individual’s susceptibility to acne. If your parents or siblings had acne, you might have a higher risk of developing it as well.
- Diet – While the exact impact of diet on acne is still a subject of research, some studies suggest that high-glycemic-index foods (such as sugary and processed foods) and dairy products might influence acne development in certain individuals.
- Medications – Some medications, such as certain steroids, lithium, and anticonvulsants, can contribute to the development of acne.
- Cosmetics and Skincare Products- Certain cosmetic and skincare products, especially those that are oil-based or comedogenic (tendency to clog pores), can worsen acne if not properly chosen or used.
- Environmental Factors – Exposure to pollutants, high humidity, and certain occupational exposures can potentially exacerbate acne.
- Stress – While stress itself may not directly cause acne, it can potentially worsen existing acne due to its impact on hormone levels and inflammation.