What Causes Acne?
Though the exact cause of acne is unknown, many doctors believe
it is a direct result of a variety of factors. One of these
factors is the increase in androgens during puberty. Androgens
are hormones, and can cause the enlargement and overstimulation
of the sebaceous glands in people with acne.
For both males and females, the increase in androgens during
puberty can cause these sebaceous glands to produce more sebum,
which is oil. This oil mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria
on the skin and blocks pores. Inside of these blocked pores
bacteria multiplies and leads to swelling, which then causes
spots and pimples.
Some researchers also believe that acne is hereditary, and that
people with parents who had acne are likely to inherit acne.
Though stress has not been found to be a direct cause of acne,
it can lead to aggravated cases of acne. This happens because
when someone is laden with anxiety, their body produces hormones
such as cortisol, which exacerbates acne.
Other possible causes of acne include certain medications,
drugs, steroids, have or oily make-up, and harsh skin cleansing.
Greasy foods and dirty skin have often been blamed for acne, but
there is little evidence supporting these as direct causes of
acne. Acne is also not contagious.
Acne
Acne Prevention