Although no particular reason can be assigned to "why acne happens" but there are certain factors that lead to acne. These can be categorized as: Hormonal changes, genetic factors, over-secretion of sebum, dead cells, inflammatory response, environmental factors and reactions to certain medications.
Hormonal changes
Our hormones witness a drastic change at major stages of our life such as puberty or pregnancy. At puberty, the body begins producing hormones called androgens (male hormones, but present in both males and females). These stimulate the sebaceous glands, which in turn, produce extra sebum. Androgen is also responsible for acne flare-ups during the menstrual cycle and at times, even during pregnancy. Add to these, psychological stress and depression and it can make the condition worse. Menstrual cycles also trigger hormonal changes which could lead to the development of acne.
Genetic factors
If there has been a history of acne in your family then you are very likely to be a sufferer of the same. Genetics carry it along and you can be affected by it.
Over-secretion of sebum
Over secretion of sebum by the sebaceous glands plugs the hair follicles and causes acne. The production of sebum is governed by various hormones called androgens. The change in these hormones leads to over secretion of sebum which then causes acne.
Dead cells
Generally dead cells are thrown out of the skin, but if they accumulate under the skin, they mix with sebum and cause acne.
Inflammatory response
In order to control unwanted bacteria, the body sends out white blood cells to fight against it. The skin reacts to these white blood cells by inflaming. This inflammation causes the pimples to become swollen, red and painful and turn them into acne.
Environmental factors
Certain environmental factors can also lead to acne. These are:
- The use of certain cosmetics, especially moisturizers with an oily base.
- Constant friction against the skin due to headbands or straps.
- Hot and humid conditions.
- Diet, sometimes due to excessive intake of dairy products (though this is still a controversial issue).
Certain medications
A lot of hormonal medications also lead to acne. For eg.- steroids can cause steroid acne. Contraceptive pills can sometimes aggravate acne in women. Apart from this, certain stress medications can also cause acne.
Stated reasons cause acne in most of the cases. To know more about it see the related articles.
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