Causes and Risk Factors of Acne

While genetic factors, hormonal changes, and diet play a significant role in the development of acne, there are additional influencing factors that should be understood. Therefore, in this article, we will delve into the causes of acne and its risk factors in detail to help you better understand this dermatological issue.

What Causes Acne?

Each skin pore opens onto a follicle, which consists of a hair and a sebaceous (oil) gland. These small oil glands, located near the surface of the skin, secrete sebum, which travels outside the pores to help keep the skin moist and soft.

Regarding the causes of acne, this dermatological problem occurs due to the blockage of pores caused by one of the following:

• Sebum: Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands to provide a protective barrier for the skin. Excess sebum production can lead to pore blockage. Acne usually appears on the face, chest, forehead, upper back, and shoulders because these areas contain the most oil glands.
• Bacteria: Normally, small amounts of bacteria live on the skin. However, an increase in bacterial quantity for any reason can cause pore blockage and inflammation.
• Dead skin cells: Dead skin cells shed regularly to make way for new, more vibrant cells. However, these cells can get trapped in the pores and accumulate, leading to blockage.

The type of acne depends on the type of material that caused the pore blockage. In cases where pores are clogged with excess sebum and dead skin cells, acne appears in the form of whiteheads or blackheads. However, when pores are clogged or contaminated with bacteria, inflammatory acne such as papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts may develop.

What are the risk factors for developing acne?

In reality, experts have not yet been able to determine the exact cause that makes some individuals suffer from acne while others do not. However, they have identified some risk factors that can cause or exacerbate acne. To further clarify the causes of acne, it is necessary to address these factors:

• Genetics and Heredity

Genetic factors play a role in acne susceptibility, as the chances of developing acne increase if one of the parents has acne.

• Hormonal Changes

Androgens are hormones that increase during puberty in both females and males, and they may play a role in the onset of acne. Therefore, this problem is common among teenagers aged 16 - 18 years. 

Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstruation, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also cause or worsen acne, as women are more prone to acne compared to men after puberty.

• Side Effects of Certain Medications

Some medications can cause acne as a side effect, including corticosteroids, lithium, hormone-containing medications, and anticonvulsants.

• Diet

Some studies have suggested that consuming certain foods such as dairy products and foods rich in refined carbohydrates and added sugars may worsen acne. However, more studies are needed on this subject.

• Stress

Stress does not cause acne, but it can exacerbate acne and worsen the condition because it increases cortisol hormone levels.

• Other Factors

The following factors may also contribute to acne:

1. Wearing tight-fitting clothes and head coverings like hats and sports helmets.
2. Using oily or greasy personal care products, such as heavy creams, lotions, and facial cleansers that contain high levels of oils.
3. Air pollution and certain weather conditions such as high humidity.
4. Cigarette smoking, which can contribute to acne in older adults.
5. Lack of sleep.

Many acne sufferers are prescribed roaccutane by their doctor, but treatment with this medication requires undergoing some tests to ensure the readiness of the body, especially liver and kidney function, which Blazma provides in the roaccutane Package for Skin, and fasting is required before performing it.