Acne: Causes and Overview
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with dirt, oil, debris, or dead skin cells. This blockage leads to bacterial infection, resulting in pain and inflammation. Acne typically appears as spots or pimples on the face, neck, back, or chest.
Although acne can affect people of all ages, it is most commonly seen during puberty, usually between the ages of 10 and 13. It tends to be more severe in teenagers, especially males or individuals with oily skin.
Acne is one of the most prevalent skin problems worldwide. It is estimated that a majority of people aged 11 to 30 experience mild acne at some point, and nearly everyone is believed to have encountered acne in their lifetime.
What are the symptoms of acne?
You will notice the following common symptoms if you have acne:
- Pimples: Pimples are persistent red spots on the skin filled with pus.
- Blackheads: Due to oxygen in the air, blackheads open at the skin’s surface, giving them a black appearance.
- Whiteheads: Whiteheads remain closed under the skin surface, giving them a white appearance.
- Pustules: Pustules are small, red-colored pimples with pus at their tips.
- Papules: Papules are small, raised bumps that appear red in color.
- Nodules: Nodules are solid, painful lumps that appear under the skin’s surface.
- Cysts: Cysts are large, painful lumps that contain pus. They appear under your skin.
Furthermore, acne is divided into three grades according to its severity:
- Mild acne: You will find a few blackheads, whiteheads, mildly irritated small pustules, or pimples. However, there won’t be a proper pimple mark.
- Moderate acne: Compared to mild acne, you will find more whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and pustules on your face. You may get a pimple mark.
- Severe acne: In this case, you will find a large number of whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, pustules, and painful nodules on your skin. You will get pimple marks as well.
Causes and Symptoms of Acne
Acne occurs when pores become clogged due to various factors, such as excessive sebum (oil) production by the sebaceous glands, accumulation of dead skin cells, or bacterial buildup.
Acne can develop on almost any part of the body, but it is most commonly found on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, back, and even the vaginal area. The types of acne can vary, ranging from blackheads and small red bumps to large pus-filled cysts.
Several additional factors that can contribute to acne include:
- Poor gut health and an unhealthy digestive system
- Compromised skin health
- Excessive stress
- Frequent exposure to pollution and dirty air
- An unhealthy diet
- Inadequate water intake
- Overuse of medications
To prevent acne, follow these key steps:
- Skincare Routine: Cleanse twice daily with a gentle cleanser, exfoliate with salicylic acid, moisturize, and apply sunscreen.
- Healthy Diet: Limit dairy and sugar, eat antioxidant-rich foods, and drink plenty of water.
- Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation and exercise.
- Hormonal Balance: Consult a doctor if hormones are affecting your skin.
- Gut Health: Use probiotics, like Utsukushhii, to promote healthy digestion.
- Acne Products: Use products with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or niacinamide.
- Professional Treatments: Consult a dermatologist for medications, chemical peels, or laser therapy if needed.
These steps help maintain clear skin and prevent breakouts.
