WHAT CAUSES ACNE?
Acne is the most common skin condition in the world. From teenagers to adults, millions of people struggle with acne and wish to find out what causes it. To understand why acne occurs, you have to first understand the basics of how our skin works.
Acne and Our Skin
Our skin is composed of three main layers that all play a role in preventing and causing acne. They are:
- Epidermis
- Dermis
- Subcutaneous layer
The epidermis layer is the outermost layer and it comprises of two parts: the stratum corneum, which is composed of tightly packed dead skin cells, and the underlying layer, which is composed of living cells.
The dermis layer is located underneath the epidermis and contains sweat glands, sebaceous glands, hair follicles, and blood vessels. The dermis also contains sebaceous glands which secrete an oily substance called sebum that lubricates the skin and hair.
The subcutaneous layer lies beneath the dermis layer and is composed of fat and connective tissues. This layer helps to regulate body temperature, as well as provide cushioning and insulation against extreme temperatures.
Acne Formation
The main cause of acne is a rise in hormone levels, commonly during puberty where androgens stimulate the production of sebum. This increase in sebum production can cause the pores to become blocked, trapping the sebum beneath the skin.
The trapped sebum then causes bacteria to grow, which results in inflammation and redness. These symptoms can be further exacerbated by poor lifestyle habits such as smoking, lack of sleep, and high-sugar diet.
Treating Acne
There are a variety of treatments for acne, including topical creams, antibiotics, and lifestyle modifications. The most effective treatment plan is one that takes into account the individual’s skin type and the severity of their acne.
It is important to speak to your doctor or dermatologist to determine a treatment plan that is right for you. It is also essential to keep the affected area clean and free of bacteria to prevent further spread of infection.
Keywords
Acne, skin, epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous layer, hormones, sebum, bacteria, inflammation, redness, treatment, lifestyle modifications, topical creams, antibiotics.
