Acne, commonly known as pimples, zits, blackheads, and whiteheads, is a prevalent skin condition, particularly among teenagers. Often considered one of the most bothersome aspects of puberty, acne arises during a period of significant physical and hormonal changes. But what exactly causes these blemishes?
Acne vulgaris, the medical term for common acne, is triggered by a combination of factors. Hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty, lead to increased testosterone production. Menstrual cycles in females also contribute to hormonal imbalances. These hormonal shifts, combined with other bodily changes associated with adolescence, create an environment conducive to acne development. A key player is the bacteria naturally present on the skin, which thrives in clogged pores filled with dead skin cells.
Exposure to excessive chlorine can exacerbate acne, and the use of anabolic steroids is also known to trigger outbreaks, among other serious health risks.
Contrary to outdated beliefs, acne is not caused by poor hygiene. Over-washing the face can actually worsen the problem by irritating the skin. Similarly, the notion that certain foods, like fried foods or chocolate, directly cause acne is largely unfounded. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, there’s no direct scientific link between specific foods and acne breakouts.
For most individuals, acne diminishes as they transition out of puberty and their bodies stabilize. By their twenties, many people experience a significant reduction in acne. While some may continue to struggle with it longer, acne is generally a temporary condition.
Acne blemishes are categorized as either inflamed or non-inflamed. Non-inflamed blemishes include blackheads and whiteheads. A whitehead is a closed, clogged follicle filled with dead skin cells. A blackhead is essentially the same, but the pore is open, and the contents have oxidized, resulting in a darker color. The dark color isn’t from dirt.
Inflamed blemishes are the typical pimples or zits. These are characterized by redness and inflammation. Pimples develop when a whitehead doesn’t clear and the pore wall ruptures, creating a space filled with oil, dead skin cells, bacteria, and other debris. White blood cells rush to the site to combat the infection, forming pus. Larger cysts can be more painful and persistent, sometimes requiring medical intervention.
Despite misconceptions, sun exposure doesn’t cure acne. While a tan might make blemishes less noticeable, it doesn’t address the underlying cause and can lead to long-term skin damage. Effective treatments are available, ranging from over-the-counter remedies and natural solutions to prescription medications. These treatments can significantly reduce the impact of acne.