Causes Of Acne

The exact causes of acne differ from individual to individual, as well as from type of acne to type of acne. There is evidence and research that shows that some forms of acne are more hereditary or genetic, whereas other forms of acne are hormonally or chemically based. Research also indicates that some vitamin and mineral deficiencies may also contribute or directly cause the formation of acne.

Since each cause of acne is slightly different the various causes are discussed below. Most researchers tend to favor the theory that there is usually a combination of factors involved in acne, not just one specific causal agent.

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Hormonal – hormonal changes within the body lead to the production of excessive amounts of sebum or oil within the skin. The specific hormones most responsible for acne problems are the androgens, which are the male hormones found in both men and women. When the production of androgens becomes unbalanced, the skin begins producing great amounts of sebum, which in turn leads to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Hormonal imbalances may occur during teenage years, pregnancy, certain medical conditions, at times of extreme stress, and even during menopause in women.

Genetic traits – if family members, such as parents and grandparents, had problems with acne, there may be a genetic component to the condition. The exact genetic marker that causes acne is not known but it may be related to hormonal control factors that are inherited. Since most people have some form of acne in their lifetime it may be that most people have some genetic predisposition to the condition.

Environmental conditions – high humidity that prevents the draining of the sebum from the pores tends to increase acne breakouts. Using a high quality oil-free moisturizer and cleaning the face using fresh cool water several times a day will help keep pores draining and oil-free.

Moisturizers and cosmetics - Using moisturizers that plug the pores, usually those that include lanolin, vegetable oils, oleic acid or petrolatum actually build up over the pores effectively clogging them. As the oils build up under the surface of the moisturizer or make-up, both whiteheads, blackheads and even cysts will begin to form. Generally, discontinuing use of the products will eliminate the problem. Look for oil-free moisturizers and cosmetics if your skin is sensitive or prone to breakouts when you use cosmetics.

Medications – some medications can cause acne largely due to their interaction with chemicals in the body. Most of the anabolic steroids or oral steroids will cause acne. Some of the birth control medications, especially the Depo-Provera injection, can result in acne in women first using the birth control pill or injection. Antidepressants such as lithium and amoxapine as well as some anti-seizure medications such as phenobarbitol can also cause acne symptoms.

In addition to these causes stress can also be a leading cause of acne as it interacts on all aspects of the body from hormonal changes to basic immunity levels. By understanding and reducing as many possible causes of acne you can help keep breakouts to a minimum.