Monday, April 13, 2009

Acne is caused by many things. Among them are chemicals, bacteria, stress, hormones and even family history of acne.

By Conrad Blomberg

Acne is a skin condition caused by changes in skin structures consisting of a hair follicle and its associated sebaceous gland. Severe acne is inflammatory, but acne can also be found in non-inflammatory forms. Acne lesions are commonly referred to as pimples, blemishes, spots, zits, or acne.

More than 85% of teenagers get Acne. It is most common during adolescence and frequently continues into adulthood. The cause in adolescence is generally an increase in male sex hormones. Both genders get these hormones at puberty

For most people, acne diminishes over time and disappears " or at the very least decreases. This usually happens after one reaches one's early twenties. However, there is no way to predict how long it will take acne to disappear entirely because some individuals will continue to suffer from acne well into their 30s. 40s and longer.

The face and upper neck are ordinarily the most affected. However, the chest, back, upper arms and shoulders may have acne, too. Acne usually appears during adolescence, when people already are most socially insecure. Aggressive and early treatment is therefore a good idea to lessen the overall impact of this condition.

The root cause of why some people get acne and some do not is not fully known. It is thought to be partly hereditary. Several factors are believed to be linked to acne:

- Family/Genetic history.

- Hormonal activity, like menstrual cycles and puberty

- Inflammation, skin irritation or scratching of any sort will activate inflammation.

- Stress, through greater output of hormones from the adrenal (stress) glands

- Hyperactive sebaceous glands, but, secondary to the three hormone sources above.

- Accumulation of dead skin cells which block or cover pores

- Bacteria in the area's pores.

- Using anabolic steroids

- Any medication containing barbiturates, lithium, or androgens.

- Exposure to some chemical compounds.

- Exposure to halogens. Halogen acne is linked to exposure to halogens (e.g. fluorides, iodides, chlorides, bromides, )

- Chronic use of amphetamines or similar drugs.

- Amount of toxicity in the body

Most dermatologists today are waiting for confirmatory research linking diet and acne but some do support the idea that acne sufferers should experiment with their diets.

Some reputable studies have shown that newly diagnosed acne patients tend to have lower levels of vitamin A circulating in their bloodstream. Lower, that is, than those who are acne free. In addition, people with severe acne also tend to have lower blood levels of vitamin E.

Acne is not caused by dirt. This misconception probably comes from the fact that blackheads look like dirt stuck in the openings of pores. The black color is not dirt but simply oxidized keratin. In fact, the blockages of keratin that cause acne occur deep within the narrow follicle channel, where it is impossible to wash them away.

These plugs are formed by the failure of the cell linings the duct to separate and flow to the surface in the sebum created by the body. Built-up oil in the skin can block the passages of these pores. So a standard and thorough washing of the face could wash off old oil and help unblock the pores.

Thanks for looking. We hope that you found this research helpful and interesting.

Disclaimer - This information is not meant to diagnose, cure, treat or mitigate any disease or condition. Before using consult your doctor or medical advisor. This information is not approved by any government agency - it is for educational purposes only.

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