Acne can be an embarrassing problem for teens and adults. While many people assume pimples and blackheads plague a younger generation, adult acne can be just as severe. The causes of acne have been debated for years. According to dermatologists acne has several complex causes.
“Acne medical condition caused by four factors: hormones, inflammation, bacteria, and dead skin cells that clog pores,” Dermatologist Jessica Krant, founder of the Art of Dermatology practice in New York, told US News. Triggers include “stress, poor sleep, and dietary choices. For some people, chocolate really does cause breakouts; for others, it’s greasy foods, or a diet heavy in dairy.”
Causes of acne:
Bacteria. Excess sebum clogs the openings to hair follicles — especially those on the face, neck, chest, and back. Bacteria grow in these clogged follicles. This makes blackheads or whiteheads form on the skin’s surface, according to Web MD.
Two common places bacteria can live is on cell phones and yoga mats. “Both provide a fertile environment for breaking out,” Krant said. The solution? Place a clean towel on the end of the yoga mat and wipe down cell phones daily.
Hormones. Like it or not, everyone has hormones. When hormones are unbalanced, acne is often the result. Acne is common in teens because they are going through hormone changes.
Medication. Medications that contain steroids can lead to pimples. “Unfortunately, many of these medications are given for serious conditions, and there are few available substitutes,” Krant says. “So people can get stuck in troubling situations, having to take important medication that causes distressing side effects.”
Treatment:
While there are many over-the-counter products, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for the right solution to skin care problems.
