What Causes Acne

Acne occurs when there is an imbalance of more than two factors in skin
physiology concerning the sebaceous gland and duct system. A number of possible
factors can lead to acne.

It is believed that acne is caused by masculinizing hormones or androgens in
oil glands, which grow and become highly sensitive during puberty. It leads to
excessive oil secretion that blocks pores and creates the initial non-inflamed
acne spots or whiteheads and blackheads. The proliferation of the acne bacteria
(Propionibacterium acnes) causes inflammation in the oily pores, making them
more visible in the form of red pimples, pustules and lumps.

The cause of acne is due to the over activity of the sebaceous glands in
secretion of oil on the skin. Acne prone people have sebaceous glands highly
sensitive to the normal blood levels of testosterone, a hormone naturally
present in men and women alike.

Another possible cause of acne is hormonal changes during pregnancy and birth
control pills.

Inflammation in the body is also a cause of acne. Inflamed skin is indicated
by redness, swelling, warmth and discomfort. Skin inflammation is the result of
attempts by the immune system to reject a foreign substance. In acne the
substance may be bacteria or the irritating compounds produced by them.

The presence of a variety of different skin bacteria that normally don’t
cause acne may lead to it. When trapped under the skin, chemical reactions occur
between the bacteria and sebaceous substance resulting in a breakdown into free
fatty acids. Free fatty acids aggravate the inner structure of the skin and
develop inflammation and acne breakouts.

Heredity and genetics are also responsible for acne. According to researchers
acne tendency may be passed down from parents. Studies have found many
schoolboys with acne to have a family history associated with it.

There are also certain drugs like androgens and lithium that cause acne.
Greasy cosmetics may cause alterations in the follicle cells making them stick
together to form a plug.

There Are Many Myths About The Causes Of Acne:

• While chocolates and greasy foods are commonly held responsible, the
  effect of foods on the development of acne in most people is negligible.
• Dirty skin is also mistaken for causing acne as blackheads and acne
  lesions have no relation to dirt.

Lastly, acne is not caused by stress either.