 |
|
|
|
 |
Causes of Acne
The causes of acne can be classified into bacteria, genetics, hormones, and clogged pores. All these work together to cause acne. Bacteria are the single culprit required for acne. Genetics is also important. If one of your parents had acne sometime in their life chances are you will too. Hormones (specifically testosterone) can cause increased oil (sebum) production clogging the pores with dead skin cells.
Hormones
For most people with acne, it begins at puberty. This is when the body starts to produce hormones called androgens. Androgens cause the enlargement and over stimulation of the sebaceous glands in people with acne. Sensitivity to these androgens also causes acne to appear during the menstrual cycle and sometimes in pregnancy. The extra sebum (oil) that the sebaceous glands produce mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria on the skin's surface and this blocks pores. Inside the blocked pore, bacteria multiply and cause inflammation leading to the spots and pustules associated with acne.
Stress
Stress can also cause the production of hormones, such as cortisol, which can aggravate acne.
Other causes
Acne is often genetic
Some medications and steroids
Heavy or oily make up
Over abrasive cleansing
Astringent facial products can dry the skin out causing the body to create even more sebum to compensate
Use of harsh exfoliators can damage existing spots and spread infection
Picking or squeezing of blackheads, whiteheads and spots can send the infection deeper into the skin and cause scarring
A diet high in foods that can aggravate acneRelated Articles
© Acne Treatment