Many people who suffer from acne wonder what causes it. There are many reasons that acne may develop. Acne develops in oil or sebaceous glands, which is a result of heightened sebum production. This leads to retention of the sebum and plugging of the gland ducts. When these become plugged, they are called comedones. When the glands are closed, they are most commonly called whiteheads. When they are open, they are called blackheads because the open gland orifices expose the sebum plugs. These plugs then darken as a result of oxidation with the air. This is how they become blackheads.
Who Does Acne Affect?
Acne can affect anyone at basically any age. There are many different types of acne that affect people at all different stages of life. Infantile acne affects newborn babies or infants. Acne vulgaris is the most common type of acne and it can affect teens during adolescence. Acne rosacea affects mostly middle aged women and the elderly. Scalp folliculitis can affect anyone and it appears along the hairline. This can be caused by build up of hair products.
Acne usually develops during puberty, menstruation and pregnancy. This is due to the hormonal changes that occur in the body during these times of life. The hormones stimulate the sebacous glands, which produce oil and grease.
Heredity
Heredity is one of the most common reasons for developing acne. If your parents had acne, then there is a good chance that you will develop acne as well. It is more commonly passed on by the mother. If you come from a long family history of acne, it also may be harder to find a treatment for your acne.
Stress
Stress is a major factor when it comes to acne. If you suffer from acne, you are at a greater risk to develop breakouts when you are stressed. When you get stressed, your body can produce more hormones which can cause the breakouts. It is best to try to deal with your stress before it gets out of hand. This will decrease your chances of having a breakout.
Treatments for Acne
There are many treatments for acne. Many of these products can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. Some over the counter treatments are Proactiv, Benzyol Peroxide Treatment Gels, Salicylic Acid Treatments and alcohol-containing products. If you suffer from severe acne, you may need to see a dermatologist. He may prescribe you a medication to help clear it up. Some of the medications your doctor may prescribe include antibiotics such as tetracycline, minocycline and erythromycin. These are taken orally, and in most cases, you can still use an over the counter medication along with these. Just be sure to check with your doctor to make sure.
Acne affects almost everyone at some point in their life, but there are many treatments available so you do not have to suffer from it long term.
