ACNE: The Basics Of Acne Formation
Introduction
Acne affects over 40 million Americans today, with teenagers and women being affected the most. Though the exact cause of acne is not known, it is believed to be caused by a hormonal imbalance caused by having excess amounts of testosterone. This is believed to be the major cause for the development of acne in teenagers and women.
Teenagers receive this hormonal imbalance because they are going through puberty. Once they get through puberty their acne usually clears up.
Some ways women can develop a hormonal imbalance is by taking birth control pills, becoming pregnant or going through menopause.
But how exactly does acne develop?
Types Of Acne
There are several types of acne but the most common are:
Blackheads – These are pores that are clogged by dead skin with excess oil building up inside the pores. The dead skin turns black giving it its name.
Whiteheads – Basically the same as blackheads, except the pores are closed and white blood cells attack the bacteria developing pus inside the pores. When the pores erupt, an infection or inflammation develops at the site.
Pimples – These are pores that become inflamed caused by the bacteria in the pores becoming infected by the attack of white blood cells.
How Acne Develops
The three ingredients that are needed for the development of acne are excess sebum (oil), bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) and clogged pores.
The excess oils will cause the dead skins on the skin to bind together. The binding together of the skin will cover and block the pores opening. Bacteria trapped in the pores become inflamed which then develops into pus and/or redness.
The specific bacterium that causes acne is called Propionibacterium acnes or P. acnes. Though normally harmless, when P. acnes becomes trapped in pores by dead skin and sebum, the environment will lack oxygen that will allow the P. acnes to thrive.
When all three of these come together, acne develops.
Stopping Acne
As can be seen stopping oil production, removing dead skin and removing the bacteria P. acnes will minimize or stop acne from developing. Not much can or should be done to eliminate sebum since it is vital for your skin to function well. But you can do something about the bacteria and dead skin.
Cleansing with a proper cleanser, twice a day, can help in removing the bacteria from your face. To remove the dead skin you should exfoliate your face once or twice a week.
For the proper cleanser, be sure to use one that is designed for your skin type.
Jimmy C has been studying skin care for many years. Being a victim of acne in his younger days, he has researched this subject to help people prevent and stop acne. He has also studied many aspects of caring for the bodies skin and keeping it youthful and free of irritants. For more information on caring for acne or other facial blemishes and keeping your youthful appearance go to his web site at
