Acne is caused by or due to excess sebum or oil produced by the sebaceous or oil glands of the face. These sebaceous glands are located under the skin, connected to the pores or the follicles. The sebum or oil is responsible for carrying dead skin cells via the follicles which serve as small canals, out to the skin surface. The excess sebum along with dead skin cells can cause the blockage of skin’s pores, causing an accumulation of oil and dead skin cells, and may even be potential for bacterial growth. The blockage then results to the different types of acne.
Regardless of gender and age, the same factors that cause acne in a teen also applies in adults suffering with acne. However, women tend to be more prone to adult acne due to fluctuations in hormones, probably also because of the use or application of cosmetic products both on the face and hair and some other factors too. Women too also experience the onset of acne during adult years compared to men.
The exact cause of acne is still unknown and males or females vary in triggers of acne. Acne is believed to be caused by a number of factors.
Genetics play a role as a contributing factor to acne. People with a genetic predisposition for acne are more probable in getting acne. Meaning, people with relatives that had or has acne is more likely to get acne as well. It is also believed that genetic predisposition a more significant factor compared to environmental factors.
Fluctuating hormones and other chemical imbalances especially in teens and adults can cause acne breakouts. These imbalances may trigger sebaceous glands, leading to excess production of sebum. Females experience hormonal imbalances during menstrual period, pregnancy, pre-menopause and menopausal stages or upon discontinuation or start of birth control pills
Stress was also found to have a link with acne breakouts. When a person is stressed, the body produces more of the hormone called androgens which act to stimulate oil production hence leading to acne.
Food is a controversial contributing factor to acne in both teenagers and adults. However, new research studies have found a link between certain foods, particularly a diet high in glycemic index and acne.
It can vary. But, on average it requires 8-12 weeks. Acne does not just develop overnight, nor will it disappear overnight. Acne is caused by three main causes: Hormones, Bacteria and Inflammation. So, it takes a while to kill out the bacteria, balance the hormones and control the inflammation that leads to acne breakouts, DO not believe any acne system that promises to clear skin in a week...Do NOT Fall FOR THAT..
There are many myths about acne...BottomLine..It is a multifactorial disease that requires regular daily care at least twice to three times a day with a Cleanser that exfoliates dead skin cells that can mix with oils and clog pores which leads to breakouts. It requires a topical serum that can kill or destroy the Proprionibacterium Acnes- the bacteria that causes acne. And an on the go way to address the oily skin throughout your busy day to wipe away both dead skin cells and oils that can lead to additional breakouts.
And, when necessary: Prescription medications to take the above to the stronger next level for persistent moderate to severe acne.