Top Causes of Acne and How to Manage Them Effectively
Acne is a common skin concern affecting people across age groups, specifically adolescents and young adults. While it is often considered a simple cosmetic problem, persistent or severe acne can impact self-confidence and mental health. Understanding what causes acne is essential for effective treatment and prevention.
What is Acne?
Acne is a skin condition that happens when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It commonly arises on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders, as these areas have the most sebaceous (oil) glands. Acne can present as whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts, depending on its severity.
Top Causes of Acne:
- Excess Oil Production (Sebum Overproduction): The sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum that moisturises and protects the skin. However, excessive production can mix with dead skin cells and block pores, leading to acne. Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menstrual cycles often improve sebum production.
- Clogged Hair Follicles: Dead skin cells that aren’t shed properly can accumulate in hair follicles, mixing with sebum to create a plug. This leads to blackheads or whiteheads, depending on whether the pore remains open or closed.
- Bacterial Growth (Cutibacterium acnes): The skin naturally harbours bacteria, including Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes). When hair follicles are blocked, these bacteria multiply rapidly, causing inflammation, redness, and pus formation in the form of pimples or cystic lesions.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Hormones play an effective role in acne development. Androgens, such as testosterone, increase during puberty, leading to enlarged sebaceous glands and excess sebum. Conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) can also trigger acne in females due to hormonal fluctuations.
- Stress: While stress does not directly cause acne, it can aggravate existing breakouts by increasing cortisol levels, which in turn stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil.
- Diet: Certain foods, especially those high in refined sugars, dairy products, and processed carbohydrates, can trigger or worsen acne in some individuals by increasing insulin levels and inflammation.
- Use of Wrong Skin Care Products: Using oil-based or comedogenic makeup and skincare products can clog pores, worsening acne. It is necessary to choose non-comedogenic, oil-free products appropriate for your skin type.
- Medications: Some medicines, including corticosteroids, lithium, or certain birth control pills, can contribute to acne as a side effect.
- Genetics: If one or both of your parents had acne, you are more likely to develop it as genetics influence sebum production and skin cell turnover.
How to Manage Acne Effectively?
The management of acne needs a holistic and customised approach based on severity, skin type, and triggers. Here are evidence-based strategies recommended by dermatologists:
1. Follow a Gentle Skincare Routine:
- Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser twice a day to remove excess oil, dirt, & makeup.
- Avoid harsh scrubs or extreme washing, as this can irritate the skin and worsen acne.
- Choose an oil-free moisturiser to maintain hydration without clogging pores.
2. Use Topical Treatments:
Over-the-counter options include:
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Helps kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Salicylic Acid: Helps unclog pores by exfoliating dead skin cells.
Prescription options include:
- Topical Retinoids: Promote cell turnover and prevent clogged pores.
- Topical Antibiotics: Reduce bacterial growth and inflammation.
3. Oral Medications for Moderate to Severe Acne:
If topical treatments are insufficient, dermatologists may prescribe:
- Oral Antibiotics: To reduce bacterial infection and inflammation.
- Hormonal Therapy: Birth control pills or anti-androgens (like spironolactone) for women with hormonal acne.
- Isotretinoin: For severe cystic acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments, under strict medical supervision.
4. Professional Procedures:
- Chemical Peels: Using salicylic acid or glycolic acid peels to relieve comedones and improve skin texture.
- Laser and Light Therapies: Help reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Extraction Procedures: Performed by dermatologists to remove blackheads and whiteheads safely.
5. Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Limit intake of sugary drinks, dairy products, & processed foods if they worsen your acne.
- Manage stress through yoga, meditation, or hobbies.
- Ensure adequate sleep to promote skin healing.
6. Avoid Picking or Popping Pimples:
- This can worsen inflammation, push bacteria deeper into the skin, and cause permanent scarring.
7. Use Sunscreen Daily:
- Acne treatments can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Choose a broad-spectrum, oil-free sunscreen to protect against UV damage and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
When to See a Dermatologist?
If your acne is:
- Persistent despite over-the-counter treatments.
- Causing pain, cysts, or nodules.
- Leading to emotional distress or low self-esteem.
- Leaving scars or dark spots.
It is important to consult a dermatologist in Pune, like Dr. Kiran Ardad-Mane at Leela Superspeciality Hospital. As an experienced consultant skin specialist in Pune, Dr. Kiran specialises in treating acne with a comprehensive, individualised approach combining medical treatment, skincare guidance, & lifestyle counselling to achieve clear & healthy skin.
Conclusion:
Acne may be common, but it is treatable with the right guidance and patience. Identifying the underlying causes and adopting a targeted skincare and treatment plan can significantly improve your skin health and confidence. If you are struggling with acne, reach out to an expert dermatologist in Pune to start your journey towards acne-free skin today.
