Acne: Causes and Cures

Author: Corwin Brown

The exact cause of acne is unknown, but doctors believe it results from several related factors. One important factor is rising hormone levels. These hormones, called androgens (male sex hormones), increase in both boys and girls during puberty and can cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Another factor is heredity or genetics. Researchers believe that the tendency to develop acne can be inherited from parents. For example, studies have shown that many school-age boys with acne have a family history of the disorder.

 

Types of Acne

 

Moderate and  severe inflammatory types of acne result after the plugged follicle is invaded by bacteria. A pimple forms when the damaged follicle weakens and bursts open, releasing sebum, bacteria, dead skin, and white blood cells into the surrounding tissues.

 

Inflamed pimples near the skins surface are called papules, when deeper, they are called pustules. The most severe type of acne consists of cysts (closed sacs) and nodules (hard swelling). Scarring occurs when new skin cells are laid down to replace damaged cells

 

Myths About the Causes of Acne

 

There are many myths about what causes acne. Chocolate and greasy foods are often blamed, but research has shown that foods seem to have little effect on the development and course of acne in most people. Another common myth is that dirty skin causes acne; however, blackheads and other acne lesions are not caused by dirt.

 

What makes acne worse?

 

There are a number of things that can make your acne worse. These include the following:

 

    * picking and squeezing the spots may cause further inflammation and scarring

    * stress can make acne worse in some people, although it is not clear why

    * in women, outbreaks may be affected by the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle

    * excessive production of male hormones such as testosterone from conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome may be another cause. For more information, please see the separate BUPA factsheet Polycystic ovary syndrome

    * some contraceptive pills may make acne worse. This is due to the type of progestogen hormone in some pills whereas some other types of contraceptive pills can improve acne - see Treatments section below. Your GP will advise you which contraceptive pill to take

    * some medicines can make acne worse. For example, some medicines taken for epilepsy, and steroid creams and ointments that are used for eczema. Do not stop a prescribed medicine if you suspect it is making your acne worse, but tell your GP. An alternative may be an option

·    steroids can cause acne as a side-effect

 

Acne Treatments

 

Topical treatments. Acne lotions may dry up the oil, kill bacteria and promote sloughing of dead skin cells. Over-the-counter lotions are generally mild and contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid or lactic acid as their active ingredient. These products can be helpful for very mild acne. If your acne doesn't respond to these treatments, you may want to see a doctor or dermatologist to get a stronger prescription lotion. Tretinoin (Avita, Retin-A, Renova) and adapalene (Differin) are examples of topical prescription products derived from vitamin A. They work by promoting cell turnover and preventing plugging of the hair follicles. A number of topical antibiotics also are available. They work by killing excess skin bacteria. Often, a combination of such products is required to achieve optimal results.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/acne-articles/acne-causes-and-cures-362363.html

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