Causes of Acne
What Causes Acne?
The exact cause of acne is unknown, but doctors believe
it results from several related factors. One important factor is an
increase in hormones called androgens (male sex hormones). These increase
in both boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands
to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy
or starting or stopping birth control pills can also cause acne.
Another factor is heredity or genetics. Researchers believe
that the tendency to develop acne can be inherited from parents. For
example, studies have shown that many school-age boys with acne have
a family history of the disorder. Certain drugs, including androgens
and lithium, are known to cause acne. Greasy cosmetics may alter the
cells of the follicles and make them stick together, producing a plug.
Factors That Can Make Acne Worse
Factors that can cause an acne flare include:
- Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women 2 to
7 days before their menstrual period starts
- Friction caused by leaning on or rubbing the skin
- Pressure from bike helmets, backpacks, or tight collars
- Environmental irritants, such as pollution and high humidity
- Squeezing or picking at blemishes
- Hard scrubbing of the skin.
Myths About the Causes of Acne
There are many myths about what causes acne. Chocolate
and greasy foods are often blamed, but foods seem to have little effect
on the development and course of acne in most people. Another common
myth is that dirty skin causes acne; however, blackheads and other acne
lesions are not caused by dirt. Finally, stress does not cause acne.
Who Gets Acne?
People of all races and ages get acne. It is most common
in adolescents and young adults. Nearly 85 percent of people between
the ages of 12 and 24 develop the disorder. For most people, acne tends
to go away by the time they reach their thirties; however, some people
in their forties and fifties continue to have this skin problem.
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