what causes acne?

hormones

For most people with acne, it begins at puberty. This is when the body starts to produce hormones called androgens. Androgens cause the enlargement and overstimulation of the sebaceous glands in people with acne. Sensitivity to these androgens also cause acne to appear during the menstrual cycle and sometimes in pregnancy. The extra sebum (oil) that the sebaceous glands produce mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria on the skin's surface and this blocks pores. Inside the blocked pore, bacteria multiply and cause inflammation leading to the spots and pustules associated with acne.

 

Stress can also cause the production of hormones, such as cortisol, which can aggravate acne.

 

other causes

• Acne is often genetic
• Some medications and steroids
• Heavy or oily make up
• Over abrasive cleansing
  • Astringent facial products can dry the skin out causing the body to create even more sebum to compensate
  • Use of harsh exfoliators can damage existing spots and spread infection
  • Picking or squeezing of blackheads, whiteheads and spots can send the infection deeper into the skin and cause scarring
• A diet high in foods that can aggravate acne

What does not cause acne?

• Dirt/lack of hygiene, unless you get your face dirty on a daily basis (e.g. a mechanic)
• Catching it from someone else - it is not contagious

How To Get Rid Of Acne

You really can get rid of acne, naturally. How? By learning about the causes of acne and how to rebalance the body. By understanding that applying harsh chemicals to the skin can actually exacerbate the skin's natural oil production and make acne worse. To really get rid of acne, you need to equip yourself with information about hormones, food, skin care products, dehydration, yeast and antibiotics. By listening to your body you will find the long-term path to clearer skin.

Acne Treatment and Products