Causes of Acne
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Causes of Acne
Causes of Acne
There are many causes of acne. According to researchers, the major causes of acne are hormones and genetics. Other causes of acne include medication, cosmetics, personal hygiene and environment. This will vary from person to person. This is also the reason why some acne treatments will work for some people and not for others.
Causes of Acne: Hormones
The period in one’s life when the body undergoes major changes is puberty. It is during this teenage period that the body starts to produce hormones called androgens (both boys and girls). These androgens causes extra oil, called sebum, to be produced. This, in turns, mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria. This mixture blocks the pores or hair follicles. In the blocked pores, the bacteria causes inflammation which leads to acne. This process all happens beneath the surface of the skin. This is important to keep in mind. You can feel the onset of an acne flair up by an itchy “sensation”. This is a sign that a pimple is about to be formed.
85% of the population that develop acne are in the age range between twelve and eighteen. The other 15% represents the remaining age ranges. Even babies can develop acne.
Other causes of hormonal changes such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can cause acne. Any changes to the hormonal balance in the male and female adults can cause overproduction of sebum which may lead to some form of acne.
Causes of Acne: Genetics
Another casue of acne is heredity or genetics. While this area of research is still new, some researchers believe that one’s tendency to develop acne is higher if their parents have had or still have acne.
Causes of Acne: Medication
The use of certain drugs can cause acne. It’s those drugs that causes a shift in hormonal balance. Some examples are: barbiturates, anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medication, anabolic steroids, lithium, progestin (an ingredient in birth control pills), and anti-seizure medications.
Causes of Acne: Cosmetics
Some heavy and oily cosmetic’s ingredients can lead to the over production of sebum, thereby clogging up the pores. Look for cosmetic products that are oil-free or uses natural ingredients. Also check labels for “non-comedogenic”.
Causes of Acne: Cleaning with abrasive products
Astringent products can cause the skin to dry out. This leads to the body to over produce sebum. Using harsh exfoliators can damage existing acne spots and spread the infection.
Causes of Acne: Pressure from hats, helmets, backpacks, sports pad, tight clothing
Any type of pressure against the skin will potentially lead to irritation and acne flair ups.