Causes of Acne – Medical Details
From a dermatological perspective, acne is a multifactorial condition influenced by several factors.
Detailed Explanation of the Causes of Acne
Hormonal Factors
Hormones play a significant role in acne development. Androgens, a group of hormones including testosterone, increase during puberty. These hormones stimulate the sebaceous (oil) glands in the skin to produce more sebum (oil). Excess sebum production can lead to the development of acne. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to acne formation.
Sebum Production
Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands that helps lubricate the skin and hair. In individuals with acne-prone skin, there is an increased production of sebum. The overproduction of sebum can cause the skin to become oily, contributing to the development of acne.
Abnormal Follicular Keratinization
Inside the hair follicles, there is a continuous process of cell turnover and shedding of dead skin cells. In acne-prone individuals, these dead skin cells don’t shed properly and can clump together, forming a plug called a comedone. The comedone can be either open (blackhead) or closed (whitehead). The accumulation of these plugs leads to the formation of acne lesions.
Proliferation of Propionibacterium Acnes
Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a type of bacteria naturally present on the skin. In acne, there is an overgrowth of P. acnes within the hair follicles. The bacteria feed on sebum and produce substances that trigger an inflammatory response in the skin. This inflammation leads to the redness, swelling, and pus formation commonly associated with acne.
Inflammation
Inflammatory factors play a crucial role in acne development and progression. The immune system responds to the presence of P. acnes bacteria by releasing inflammatory chemicals, such as cytokines. These chemicals attract white blood cells to the affected area, causing inflammation. Inflammatory acne lesions include papules (small red bumps), pustules (pimples with pus), nodules (larger, painful lesions deep within the skin), and cysts (painful, pus-filled bumps).
Genetic Factors
Acne can have a genetic component. If your parents or close relatives have a history of acne, you may be more prone to developing it. Certain genetic variations may affect sebum production, follicular keratinization, or the body’s inflammatory response, making some individuals more susceptible to acne.
Environmental Factors
While not a direct cause, environmental factors can influence acne. Exposure to certain chemicals, pollutants, and irritants may aggravate acne or contribute to the development of acne-like skin conditions. Additionally, friction from tight clothing, helmets, or backpacks can exacerbate acne in susceptible individuals.
