Acne is a skin condition that is caused by an inflammation of your skin’s oil glands (sebaceous glands) and hair follicles. Bacteria plays a role, but active male hormones (androgens) in both males and females can cause the oil glands to overproduce oil, which combine with dead skin cells to clog pores and cause acne.
Acne usually presents itself on the face, chest, and back, and is most prevalent during puberty. In puberty, the skin undergoes a lot of hormonal changes, as the glands are very active during this phase of life. And although acne is a normal part of puberty, people of all ages – and all races – can be affected by it.
So, why is acne worse for some people than it is for others? Below are several contributing factors regarding why some people are more susceptible to acne than others.
Androgen Hormones
Male hormones called androgens are present in males and females, and the fluctuation of these hormones create acne cycles that many people experience.
Teenage boys and young men may experience greater acne development through their twenties; and because they have higher levels of androgens, males tend to suffer more severe acne than females. However, since hormones continue to fluctuate throughout women’s entire lives, women may continue to experience acne without it ever fully going away.
Hygiene
Dirt doesn’t cause acne, and blackheads aren’t a result of dirty skin but rather that of oil-plugged pores. The discoloration occurs when sebum (the natural oil that lubricates skin) is exposed to the air.
Hygiene becomes a factor in the development of acne when the body perspires heavily – such as during exercise or being outdoors in the summer months – and traps bacteria in the clothing that is against your skin.
It’s a good idea to change out of sweaty clothes as soon as possible, and be sure to launder them before wearing them again.
Genetics
Genes influence everything from eye and hair color to hormone production, so naturally some people have a propensity for producing higher levels of hormones than others. Therefore, some people are simply more susceptible to acne due to heredity.
If your parents were prone to acne, the chances are that you will be also. More sebum tends to be produced in inherited acne-prone skin, regardless of diet, environment, and other factors.
Medication
Certain medications can make your skin more vulnerable to acne. Medications that influence hormones, like birth control pills, steroids, and anti-psychotic or anti-seizure medications can affect hormone production.
Contact a Dermatologist in Miami Today
Although some folks are more prone to acne and other skin conditions than others, have no fear. Acne in all its forms is treatable for everyone affected. The skilled team at the Children’s Skin Center Pediatric and Adult Dermatology can help treat this problem for all ages.
Our practice is fully equipped to help regulate and treat acne from adolescents through adulthood. Call or text our offices today at (305)-669-6555 to make an appointment with one of our board-certified physicians. You can trust our experienced physicians to help you get clearer, more beautiful skin.
