Causes of Acne: 8 Common Myths
Acne can be triggered by several factors, but it’s a result of pores being clogged. The pores of the skin can become clogged by excessive oil production, dead skin cells or a combination of both. There are different types of acne, including adult acne and back acne. Some acne can cause scarring, which is why it’s important to be gentle with the skin and seek professional instruction for acne treatment. There are certain factors that can aggravate acne, but there are some causes that have been thought to cause acne that actually don’t!
Dirt
One common opinion is that acne is caused by dirt residue on the skin. Acne is merely caused by plugged pores, not dirt. Some people have experienced more aggravated symptoms of acne because they continuously washed and scrubbed their face to remove dirt and residue. The skin is equipped with components that naturally cleanse the skin and dirt can be easily removed with a gentle wash cloth and water during showering and bathing.
Teenage Hormones
While acne can be caused by the androgen hormones that are released during puberty, just being a teenager is not the cause of acne. Many teenagers do not develop acne at all. Some teenagers develop more chronic conditions due to genetics or other factors. The impact that androgen has on the body – by increasing oil production in the skin – can continue into adulthood. That’s why it’s not advised for teenagers to simply “wait” for their acne to go away, especially if it’s particularly troublesome.
Acne can cause permanent scarring. Approximately 40% of teenager’s do suffer from some type of acne, severe or not, and require treatment by a physician.
Acne is Contagious
The factors that cause acne are not contagious. Since acne is caused by the over production of oils and clogged pores, it is not something that can be transmitted from person to person. The bacteria that contributes to acne breakouts is not a contagious bacteria.
Stress
While stress can contribute to acne, it’s not a cause of serious acne cases. During times of stress, the adrenal glands produce more cortisol which can increase oil production in the skin. This makes it more likely for stressful events to aggravate already existing acne. If you aren’t prone to acne but notice a pimple or two during stressful situations, it will more than likely go away.
Poor Hygiene
In the past, it has been suggested that acne is a result of a limited or non-existent skin care regime. Since excess oil and dead skin cells can cause acne, some people may increase the washing of their skin and even scrub it intensely. This can make acne cases worse. Instead, you can gently wash your face about twice a day and pat dry. Not everyone needs to use extensive skin care regimes and it’s best to use skin care products that fit your skin type.
Sun
One common opinion is that sunlight makes acne worse, which can often discourage acne suffers from the benefits of sunlight. A moderate amount of sunlight can actually ease cases of acne, allowing the skin to heal. Sunlight has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. Daily sunlight exposure can also help to destroy the bacteria that is associated with acne. Exposure to the sun won’t actually cause acne, though excessive exposure could worsen the condition if the sun begins to burn to the skin.
No Cause
There is always a cause of acne, and no one needs to suffer from it. If you have serious or recurrent acne, it’s best to visit your doctor to identify the actual cause of your acne breakouts. It was once believed that there is no direct cause of acne and that it’s usually something that someone will outgrow. The truth is, each cause of acne remains specific to each individual who suffers from an acne breakout. One cause of acne could be a certain medication or more intense such as the overproduction of the sebaceous glands.
Cosmetics
Certain facial care products and cosmetics can cause acne by clogging the pores of the skin. But someone with acne should not be afraid to use cosmetics and skin care products. Some cosmetics actually contain ingredients that can help to prevent and treat acne. Keep in mind what type of cosmetics you use and discontinue use if some aggravate or trigger acne.
Despite the exact cause, acne is a common problem that is found worldwide, affecting approximately 17 million people in the U.S. alone. Both genders experience acne and adults, as well as teenagers, are susceptible to cases of acne. With a proper acne treatment, most cases of acne can be properly managed and even cured completely.
The important thing to remember is that the exact cause of your particular acne may or may not be identified, but treatment options are available for those who suffer from all types of acne, including cystic acne. Remember to be gentle with your skin and consult your doctor if acne is a frequent and severe problem for you.
