What Causes Acne? Popular Triggers And Myths

Acne is an extremely troublesome and persistent skin disease caused by obstruction of the hair follicles. Although it affects people of all ages, it most commonly affects adolescents due to puberty, when the production of sex hormones peaks. However, the onset of this condition can be caused by other factors besides hormonal changes. So what exactly causes acne? Let's demystify some popular ideas!

What does acne represent?

Affecting almost 80% of young people at the onset of puberty, acne appears when the sebaceous glands produce an abnormally high amount of sebum. This "invades" the surface of the skin and it therefore becomes more oily. The excess sebum clogs the pores which causes blackheads, comedones or white microcysts. As a result, inflammation inside the follicles occurs and bacteria begin to grow there. More precisely, it is the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes which is responsible for pustules and nodules.

For your information, many studies have found cases of acne patients in the same family. However, more scientific evidence will be needed to confirm a genetic link.

What causes acne?

As mentioned above, hormonal changes during puberty are the most common reason for acne to appear. However, there are other causes. To decipher them in the following paragraphs!

Frequently responsible for a considerable number of ailments, stress can also act as a trigger for acne. Considering the fact that it affects hormone levels, it is no surprise therefore that stress is often associated with the development of such a skin condition. This association is indeed based on the presence of innumerable nerve cells arranged around the sebaceous glands. They can manufacture substance P which is released under stress and could promote sebum.

The fatty or oily substances such as lotions and creams can also stimulate the development of acne. Fat in some workplaces is also a trigger.

In general, anything that comes in contact with the skin and causes friction and pressure, can promote acne.

Some myths behind the appearance of acne

Hygiene: Very dirty skin is not responsible for the development of such skin disease. Acne pimples are caused by excess sebum which makes the skin very oily and clogs the pores.

Acne is infectious: it is true that bacteria cause the appearance of pimples but it does not spread like a classic infection. Acne is therefore not a contagious disease.

Fatty Foods: Although diet plays an important role in skin care, eating fatty foods does not have a remarkable effect on the appearance of acne.