Condition
Acne
What is acne?
When a person is affected by the appearance of acne, they may find that a collection of noticeable spots, blackheads and pimples of varying sizes are covering over their skin. This condition can affect the face, neck, shoulders and back and can often cause a person to feel uncomfortable with their appearance. Although this condition is often thought of as mainly affecting adolescents, it can also develop in adults. Genetics, ageing and hormonal changes can often contribute to the development of acne in both men and women, as these factors will often influence the amount of sebum (oil) that the skin produces. Fluctuations in hormone levels may also be considered as an explanation for women who experience acne breakouts when they are pregnant, or are going through the menopause.
What are the causes?
Blocked pores are the main cause of acne when everyday dirt and debris, along with dead skin cells, builds up on the skin’s surface. When the skin is oily and is affected by excess sebum, this can accelerate the concern. When excess oil mixes with the natural bacteria on the skin, it can lead then to the development of pus within the pores, inflammation or maybe even a slight infection. In some cases, everyday items (such as helmets, face masks, mobile phones and clothing) can lead to friction or pressure on the skin, aggravating the concern. These factors can also contribute to providing a warm and moist environment for acne bacteria (P.acnes) to thrive.
What is acne?
When a person is affected by the appearance of acne, they may find that a collection of noticeable spots, blackheads and pimples of varying sizes are covering over their skin. This condition can affect the face, neck, shoulders and back and can often cause a person to feel uncomfortable with their appearance. Although this condition is often thought of as mainly affecting adolescents, it can also develop in adults. Genetics, ageing and hormonal changes can often contribute to the development of acne in both men and women, as these factors will often influence the amount of sebum (oil) that the skin produces. Fluctuations in hormone levels may also be considered as an explanation for women who experience acne breakouts when they are pregnant, or are going through the menopause.
What are the causes?
Blocked pores are the main cause of acne when everyday dirt and debris, along with dead skin cells, builds up on the skin’s surface. When the skin is oily and is affected by excess sebum, this can accelerate the concern. When excess oil mixes with the natural bacteria on the skin, it can lead then to the development of pus within the pores, inflammation or maybe even a slight infection. In some cases, everyday items (such as helmets, face masks, mobile phones and clothing) can lead to friction or pressure on the skin, aggravating the concern. These factors can also contribute to providing a warm and moist environment for acne bacteria (P.acnes) to thrive.
