What Causes Acne

Acne vulgaris (pimples) is a common chronic skin condition that occurs in teens and adults. It results from faulty follicular keratinization - some of the skin cells get sticky and don't exfoliate properly. This causes microcomedones. There is also sebaceous gland hyperactivity which causes an increase level of oil production by the skin. Under these conditions the skin surface bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes, proliferates more heavily which may lead to inflammatory acne. Occasionally these changes may lead to scarring.


Factors that influence acne include:
-Medications such as steroids, Lithium and other mood stabilizers as well as certain contraceptives such as depo-provera.
-Menstrual cycle
-Emotional stress which leads to higher levels of certain hormones such as cortisol and androgens
-Overproduction of androgens
-Family history
-Materials that obstruct the follicles such as helmet straps, shoulder pads, or tight headbands
-Picking


Factors that don't cause acne are:
-Chocolates, fatty food or sodas
-Poor hygiene
-Not washing the skin vigorously


You don't just grow out of this condition. There are treatments which work for acne. These will be covered in the next blog.