Causes of Acne: Understanding the Root of the Problem

Introduction

People of all ages can get acne, a skin disorder marked by pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads, but teenagers are more likely to get it. Even though acne can be an annoying and perhaps unpleasant problem, people can manage and treat it more effectively if they are aware of the underlying causes. Let's examine the several elements that lead to the emergence of acne. ^[1]

Hormonal Changes

Puberty
Puberty-related hormonal changes are a major factor in the development of acne. The body creates more androgens during this time, which causes the sebaceous glands to secrete more oil or sebum. This extra oil can block pores and serve as a haven for germs that cause acne. ^[2]
Menstrual Cycle
Women's menstrual cycles are frequently linked to cyclical flare-ups of acne. During this period, hormonal fluctuations may cause an increase in sebum production, which can lead to breakouts.
Pregnancy
Due to hormonal shifts during pregnancy, some women experience acne for the first time or a worsening of pre-existing acne.

Genetics and Family History

People who have a family history of acne are more prone to experience severe or chronic breakouts. Genetic factors can affect the chance of developing inflammatory acne, the sensitivity of the skin to hormones, and the overproduction of sebum. ^[3]

Bacterial Overgrowth

Acne is the result of an overpopulation of a particular type of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), not dirt or bad hygiene. This bacteria is present on the skin by nature and grows in an environment that is high in oil and clogged pores, which causes inflammation and the development of pimples.

Clogged Pores

The accumulation of germs, dead skin cells, and sebum in hair follicles leads to the development of acne. These blocked pores create an ideal setting for the growth of acne, which leads to the development of whiteheads, blackheads, and finally inflammatory lesions such as papules, pustules, and cysts.

Lifestyle Factors

Stress
Stress can exacerbate pre-existing acne by inducing hormonal imbalances and raising inflammation, even though stress does not directly cause acne.

Diet
Research on the connection between diet and acne is still ongoing, however, diets heavy in dairy products, refined carbohydrates, and foods with a high glycemic index may be linked to the development of acne.

Cosmetics and Skin Care Products
Certain cosmetic products, particularly those that are comedogenic (pore-clogging), can exacerbate acne by clogging pores and trapping oil and bacteria.

Medications and Medical Conditions

Some drugs have the potential to exacerbate or cause acne, including lithium, anabolic steroids, and corticosteroids. Furthermore, a few medical disorders including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can raise testosterone levels, which can exacerbate acne breakouts. To create a successful treatment plan, it is essential to comprehend the many causes of acne. ^[4]

The incidence and severity of acne can be reduced by addressing lifestyle choices, controlling stress, and using the right skincare products, even though some factors—like genetics—are beyond a person's control. It is advised to get expert advice from a dermatologist to investigate suitable medical treatments and therapies for situations that are severe or persistent.

Environmental Factor

Acne may worsen as a result of environmental factors such as air pollution, high humidity, and hot weather, which can increase oil production and clog pores.

By aggravating pre-existing blemishes and blocking pores, excessive friction or pressure on the skin from helmets, tight clothing, or resting the face on hands or objects—can exacerbate acne.

Hormonal Imbalances and Medical Conditions

Hormonal Acne: Causes and Treatment. Shutterstock Image

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Women of reproductive age who suffer from PCOS are affected by a hormonal condition marked by elevated amounts of androgens, or male hormones. This hormonal imbalance can cause clogged pores and excessive oil production, which can exacerbate acne. ^[5]

Cushing's Syndrome
The disorder known as Cushing's syndrome is brought on by an overabundance of the cortisol hormone. The sebaceous glands may be stimulated by this hormonal imbalance, which could increase oil production and possible breakouts of acne.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
A hereditary condition known as congenital adrenal hyperplasia damages the adrenal glands, causing an excess of androgens to be produced. Acne can be exacerbated by this hormonal imbalance, especially in adults and teenagers.

Age and Life Stages

Acne is frequently linked to puberty, although it can also appear or continue later in life, especially in women. Acne in adults can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations that occur during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.

Seeking Professional Help

Consulting a dermatologist or other healthcare expert is essential for severe or persistent acne. A dermatologist can offer suitable treatment choices, such as topical or oral drugs, chemical peels, or other procedures, and can assist in pinpointing the precise underlying reasons for an individual's acne.

Conclusion

Numerous variables, including hormone fluctuations, genetics, bacterial overgrowth, clogged pores, lifestyle choices, medications, and environmental exposures, can contribute to acne, making it a complex disorder.

To create successful treatment plans and effectively treat acne, it is vital to comprehend these factors. People can attain healthier, more radiant skin and enhance their general health by collaborating closely with medical professionals and implementing a holistic strategy.

5 Sources

We review published medical research in respected scientific journals to arrive at our conclusions about a product or health topic. This ensures the highest standard of scientific accuracy.

[1] Contributors to Wikimedia projects. (2024, April 05). Acne - Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Acne&oldid=1217457626
[2] Elsaie ML. Hormonal treatment of acne vulgaris: an update. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2016 Sep 2;9:241-8. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S114830. PMID: 27621661; PMCID: PMC5015761.
[3] Šijak D, Horvat I, Sonicki Z, Murat-Suši? S, Husar K, Skerlev M, Marinovi? B, Bukvi? Mokos Z. Correlation between Family History and the Age of Onset of Childhood Acne in Relation to Sex and Type of Acne. Acta Dermatovenerol Croat. 2019 Jun;27(2):86-89. PMID: 31351502.
[4] Acne - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic. (2022, October 08). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20368048
[5] (uk), N. G. A. (2021). Management options for people with acne vulgaris and polycystic ovary syndrome. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK573053

MaryBeth Parisi, MD

Dr. MaryBeth Parisi is a board-certified Harvard trained Dermatologist. She has over 18 years of experience in the field of skin care. Read Full Bio