Resources and Articles
The Cause of Acne
Acne is most commonly caused by overactive sebaceous glands (oil producing glands found within the skin), changes in hormone levels, a build-up of bacteria and inflammation within the skin and the skin's inability to exfoliate properly, slowing down cellular turnover. These factors can trigger the onset of acne in both teenagers and adults.
Most people first encounter acne as a teenager. During adolescence, there may be an imbalance of a hormone called DHT that triggers the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. An increase in this hormone also occurs during pregnancy and women's monthly menstrual cycle. This would explain the occasional acne break out in women during that time of the month. Some adults experience acne even if they did not have acne in their teenage years due to this imbalance.
In addition to hormones, acne is also caused by dead skin cells that clog the pores, insufficiently exfoliating and trapping bacteria underneath the skin. The pores can also become clogged when touched or if constant pressure is placed on the skin. When the sebaceous glands produce oil under clogged skin pores, the acne causing bacteria can proliferate. The build up of bacteria eventually causes the pore to become inflamed where acne can form.
In all cases of acne, it is important to appropriately cleanse the skin, treat the skin to control the spread of bacteria and inflammation and to accelerate cellular turnover with proper exfoliation. And lastly, to hydrate the skin to prevent the overproduction of oil, which is the skin's natural response to dryness.
While this problem may sound complex, you don't have to live with acne forever if you take the proper steps to eliminate it. You can control the breakouts with monthly clinical treatments and by following a proper home care regimen. At the Advanced Centre for Plastic Surgery, we offer a complimentary 15-minute skin care consultation and skin analysis. We can examine your acne problems, and other skin conditions, and recommend treatments and/or products to resolve these issues.
If we can assist you further, please contact us at 407-345-8145 or email info@yournewlook.com.
by Tracy Panico, Licensed Medical Aesthetician
