Acne is a common skin condition characterized by the formation of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts. While the exact cause of acne is not fully understood, several factors contribute to its development.
The following are some of the main causes of acne:
1. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy,
and menopause, can lead to increased oil production in the skin. This excess oil, known as sebum,
can clog hair follicles and promote the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
2. Excess Oil Production: Sebaceous glands in the skin produce an oily substance called sebum,
which helps keep the skin moisturized. However, overactive sebaceous glands can produce excessive
amounts of sebum, leading to clogged pores and acne.
3. Bacterial Infection: Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a bacteria commonly found on the skin
. When pores become clogged with excess oil, P. acnes bacteria can multiply,
leading to inflammation and the formation of acne.
4. Clogged Hair Follicles: Dead skin cells and excess sebum can accumulate in hair follicles,
causing them to become clogged. This creates an ideal environment for
the growth of bacteria and the development of acne
.
5. Inflammation: Inflammatory responses play a significant role in acne development.
When bacteria proliferate within clogged pores, the body’s immune system reacts,
causing redness, swelling, and the formation of acne lesions.
6. Genetic Factors: Acne can also have a genetic component. If your parents or close relatives had acne,
you may have an increased likelihood of developing it as well.
7. Environmental Factors: Certain environmental factors can worsen acne. Exposure to pollutants, high humidity,
and sweating can contribute to clogged pores and acne breakouts.
8. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids, hormonal medications,
and anticonvulsants, have been associated with the development of acne in some individuals.
9. Dietary Factors: While the link between diet and acne is still under investigation,
some studies suggest that high glycemic index foods (such as sugary and processed foods)
and dairy products may exacerbate acne in certain individuals.
10. Psychological Factors: Stress and emotional disturbances may not directly cause acne,
but they can exacerbate existing acne or contribute to its persistence by
triggering hormonal imbalances or altering the immune response.
It’s important to note that the causes of acne can vary from person to person, and the interplay of these factors can differ. Consulting with a dermatologist can help determine the underlying causes and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Hormonal changes play a significant role in the development of acne, especially during adolescence.
During puberty, both boys and girls experience an increase in androgen hormones, such as testosterone.
These hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce more sebum, the oily substance that helps
keep the skin moisturized.
Excess sebum production can lead to clogged pores, as the sticky sebum mixes with dead skin cells and
other debris on the skin’s surface. When the pore becomes blocked, it forms a plug, creating an environment for the growth of
acne-causing bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes).
Hormonal changes also affect the skin’s ability to shed dead skin cells properly. Normally, dead skin cells are shed from the skin’s surface, preventing them from clogging the pores. However, hormonal imbalances can disrupt this process, leading to an accumulation of dead skin cells that contribute to pore blockages.
In addition to puberty, hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can also trigger acne breakouts in women. The hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle can lead to increased sebum production and altered skin cell turnover, making women more prone to developing acne around the time of their period.
Other hormonal conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also contribute to acne. PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women and is characterized by elevated levels of androgens. These increased androgen levels can lead to excessive sebum production and acne.
It’s worth noting that hormonal changes can affect people beyond their teenage years. Hormonal acne can persist into adulthood or develop later in life, especially during times of hormonal fluctuations such as pregnancy or menopause.
Treating hormonal acne often involves addressing the underlying hormonal imbalance. Dermatologists may recommend hormonal therapies, such as oral contraceptives (birth control pills) or anti-androgen medications, to regulate hormone levels and reduce acne. In severe cases, a dermatologist may refer a patient to an endocrinologist, a specialist in hormonal disorders, for further evaluation and treatment.
Are there ways of treating or controlling acne?
Certainly! Here are some tips for the treatment and control of acne:
1. Cleanse the Skin Gently: Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to wash your face
twice a day. Avoid harsh scrubbing or overwashing, as this can irritate the skin and worsen acne.
2. Avoid Picking or Popping Pimples: It can be tempting to squeeze or pop pimples,
but this can lead to inflammation, scarring, and further spread of bacteria.
Hands should be kept away from the face to minimize the transfer of dirt and bacteria.
3. Use Topical Acne Treatments: Over-the-counter topical treatments containing ingredients
like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur or lactic acid can be effective in treating mild to moderate acne.
I recommend EDEN 1st SENSE, EDEN TONER SERUM, and EDEN NON- COMEDOGENIC CLEANSER.
These EDEN ranges surely work to help reduce bacteria, unclog pores, and control oil production.
Follow the instructions carefully.
4. Consider Prescription Medications: If over-the-counter treatments are not effective,
or if you have severe acne, a dermatologist may prescribe stronger topical or oral medications.
These may include retinoids, antibiotics, hormonal therapies (such as oral contraceptives o
r anti-androgen medications for females), or isotretinoin (a powerful medication for severe acne).
5. Moisturize and Protect the Skin: Even if you have oily skin, it’s essential to use a non-comedogenic,
( E.g EDEN NON- COMEDOGENIC CLEANSER)
moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Look for products labeled “non-comedogenic” or
“oil-free.” Additionally, protect your skin from the sun by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen
with an SPF of 30 or higher.
6. Adopt a Consistent Skincare Routine: Stick to a regular skincare routine and give it time to work
. Results may not be immediate, so be patient and consistent with your treatments.
7. Avoid Heavy Makeup and Oily Products: Use non-comedogenic or oil-free makeup products that
won’t clog pores. Remove makeup before bed to allow your skin to breathe and prevent buildup.
8. Be Mindful of Hair and Hair Products: Keep hair clean and away from the face, as hair products
and oils can aggravate acne. Avoid using greasy or oily hair products that can transfer onto the skin.
9. Watch Your Diet: While the relationship between diet and acne is still being studied,
some people find that certain foods, such as high glycemic index foods and dairy products,
can worsen their acne. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different foods and make adjustments as needed.
10. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate acne, so find healthy ways to manage stress levels.
Engage in activities like exercise, meditation, or hobbies that help you relax and unwind.
Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, so it’s important to consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment options based on your specific condition and needs.
1st SENSE CLEANSER
Combines Lactic acid and Fruit acid that are two ingredients commonly used in skincare formulations for treating acne and skin blemishes.
Here are the benefits of using a combination of lactic acid and fruit acid in such treatments:
1. Exfoliation: Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that
acts as an exfoliant. It helps remove dead skin cells, unclog
pores, and improve skin texture. By exfoliating the skin’s surface,
lactic acid can help prevent the buildup of debris and sebum that
can lead to acne breakouts.
2. Brightening and Hyperpigmentation Reduction: Fruit Acid is
a skin-lightening agent that effectively reduces hyperpigmentation,
such as dark spots, melasma, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
caused by acne. It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible
for dark spots, resulting in a more even skin tone and reduced blemishes.
3. Acne Treatment: Lactic acid has antimicrobial properties that can help
combat acne-causing bacteria. By reducing the population of bacteria on
the skin’s surface, it can prevent infection and inflammation, leading to a decrease in acne breakouts.
4. Skin Renewal and Smoothing: The combination of lactic acid and Fruit Acid
can help promote skin cell turnover and renewal. Lactic acid stimulates collagen
production, improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines
and wrinkles. Additionally, the exfoliating properties of lactic acid help smooth
the skin’s texture, making it look more radiant and youthful.
5. Enhanced Penetration: Lactic acid can enhance the penetration of other active ingredients,
including hydroquinone. This allows hydroquinone to more effectively reach the
deeper layers of the skin, where it can target pigmentation concerns and deliver better results.
It’s important to note that while lactic acid and Fruit Acid can be beneficial for treating acne and skin blemishes, it’s essential to use them under the guidance of a dermatologist. They should be used in appropriate concentrations and formulations to ensure safety and efficacy. Additionally, these ingredients may not be suitable for everyone, and individuals with sensitive or reactive skin should exercise caution and consult a skincare professional before use.