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Acne: Causes

What causes acne?

Acne is caused by clogged pores, which are tiny holes in the skin’s surface. An overproduction of oil by the oil glands can clog the pores, blocking them with dirt and bacteria. The resulting plug is called a comedone. The comedone can burst, spilling material into surrounding areas, causing inflammation. Deeper infections, including painful cysts, can also develop under the skin.

What are the risk factors for acne?

A number of factors increase the risk of developing acne. Not all people with risk factors will get acne. Risk factors for acne include:

  • Family history of acne
  • Medications, such as anticonvulsants, birth control pills, and steroids
  • Menstruation or premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
  • Pregnancy
  • Stress
  • Sweating or being in an area of high humidity
  • Use of shampoos, soaps, lotions or makeup that may contain oils or block pores

Reducing your risk of acne

Some risk factors for acne are more controllable than others. For example, you can establish and maintain good hygiene practices to reduce acne. These include:

  • Avoiding greasy creams or cosmetics
  • Ensuring that your skin is clean, oil-free, and clear of makeup before going to bed
  • Keeping your hands and fingers away from your face
  • Shampooing your hair often (if oily)
INTRODUCTION

What is acne?

Acne is a very common skin condition in the United States. Most of us, at one point or another, have probably had acne. It affects 40 to 50 million people in the United States each year. It is most common during adolescence, affecting three out of four teenagers. However it can also affect people in their 30s and 40s; pregnant women are also prone to breakouts (Source: AAD).... Read more about acne introduction

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of acne?

Acne is a skin condition that has a number of symptoms. It is not just limited to the red spots we know as pimples, but also includes a number of different skin irritations. These can occur all over the body, including the face, which is the most common location, as well as the legs, arms, back, shoulders and buttocks.... Read more about acne symptoms

TREATMENTS

How is acne treated?

Although acne cannot be cured, many effective treatments are available to reduce its symptoms. These include over-the-counter (OTC) medications, prescription medications, and surgeries. Fortunately, with time, most young people with acne will outgrow the condition.... Read more about acne treatments

UP NEXT ›› Treatments
Medical Reviewer: All content has been reviewed by board-certified physicians under the direction of Rich Klasco, M.D., FACEP. Last Annual Review Date: May 1, 2011 Copyright: © Copyright 2011 Health Grades, Inc. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or reprinted without permission from Health Grades, Inc. Use of this information is governed by the HealthGrades User Agreement.

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This Article is Filed Under: Skin, Hair and Nails, Acne


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