What Causes Acne?

Acne starts at the level of the pore. Hormones (or diet), especially androgenic hormones like testosterone or DHT, stimulate your pores to create an excess amount of sebum (oil). This leads to follicular plugging where you get a white head or black head. This stimulates the growth of a bacteria on the skin called P. Acnes, which leads to inflammation and irritation.

Basic Acne Causes

1. Excess Sebum

2. Follicular Plugging

3. Bacteria (P. Acnes)

4. Inflammation

There are alternative causes for the acne on your face. These include cosmetics, especially oil-based cosmetics like foundations and concealers. This is why it is so important to wash your face before you go to bed. Additionally, mechanical obstruction of pores such as a tight headband or helmet, blocks the pores leading to acne. Sometimes a fungus overgrowth can cause acne. Certain medications like Lithium or Prednisone can lead to acne. And lastly, certain medical conditions such as PCOS which looks like irregular periods and cyclic acne breakouts that tend to occur at the same time around your menses.

Other Acne Causes

1. Cosmetics

2. Mechanical Obstruction

3. Fungus Overgrowth

4. Medications

5. Medical Conditions (PCOS)

The best way to treat acne is with an integrative approach. Lifestyle changes like switching cosmetics, using skin cleansers appropriate to your skin type, changing your diet, paired with topical and/or oral medications plus lasers that can help with acne formation, acne scarring, acne pigment, and/or textural changes from acne can get your clear natural skin back. Are you dealing with acne and looking for a more holistic approach? Make an appointment today for a holistic consultation plan!