What Causes Acne? A Dermatologist’s Guide to Understanding Breakouts
Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages, but understanding why it happens can sometimes feel confusing. Is it hormones? Is it your diet? Or something else entirely?
In this guide, we’ll break down the main causes of acne in simple terms so you can better understand your skin and take the steps to achieve a clearer complexion.
What Is Acne?
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. It often appears on the face, chest, back, and shoulders, where oil glands are most active. Acne can range from mild (a few pimples) to severe (painful cysts or nodules).
The Main Causes of Acne
While the exact causes of acne can vary from person to person, several common factors contribute to breakouts. Let’s explore these in detail.
1. Excess Oil Production
Your skin naturally produces oil (called sebum) to keep it hydrated. However, when your oil glands go into overdrive—often due to hormonal changes—your pores can become clogged. This excess oil creates the perfect environment for acne to form.
2. Clogged Pores
Dead skin cells are regularly shed from the surface of your skin. However, if these cells aren’t removed properly, they can mix with oil and block your pores, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples.
3. Bacterial Growth
A type of bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes (formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes) lives on your skin naturally. When your pores become clogged, this bacteria multiplies and causes inflammation, resulting in red, swollen pimples.
4. Hormonal Changes
Hormones play a significant role in acne development. Androgens, a group of hormones that increase during puberty, stimulate oil production in your skin. Hormonal fluctuations during your menstrual cycle or pregnancy can also trigger breakouts.
Who Is Affected?
Teenagers often experience acne due to puberty-related hormonal changes.
Adults, particularly women, may experience hormonal acne around the jawline or chin.
5. Diet and Acne
While the link between diet and acne isn’t fully understood, some studies suggest that certain foods can contribute to breakouts. For example:
High-GI foods: Sugary snacks and refined carbohydrates can spike insulin levels, leading to increased oil production.
Dairy products: Milk and other dairy products may exacerbate acne for some people.
Tip: If you suspect your diet is affecting your skin, try keeping a food diary to identify potential triggers.
6. Stress and Acne
Stress doesn’t directly cause acne, but it can make existing breakouts worse. When you’re stressed, your body produces more cortisol, a hormone that can stimulate oil production and inflammation.
7. Skincare Products and Habits
Using the wrong skincare products can clog your pores and worsen acne. Look for labels like "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free" when choosing moisturisers, sunscreens, and makeup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Over-washing your face: Stripping your skin of natural oils can lead to more oil production.
Skipping moisturiser: Even oily skin needs hydration. Skipping moisturiser can cause dryness and trigger more oil production.
8. Genetics
If your parents or siblings struggled with acne, you may be more prone to it too. Genetics can influence how much oil your skin produces, how easily your pores clog, and how your body responds to inflammation.
Can Acne Be Prevented?
While some causes of acne, like genetics and hormones, are beyond your control, there are steps you can take to minimise breakouts:
Keep your skin clean with a gentle cleanser.
Avoid touching your face with dirty hands.
Choose skincare products suitable for your skin type.
Manage stress through activities like yoga, meditation, or exercise.
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Want to learn more about acne?
Click here for a detailed guide on what causes acne, how its treated and more.
Break Free from Breakouts
Understanding what causes acne is the first step in managing it effectively. Whether your breakouts are caused by hormones, diet, or skincare habits, professional help can make all the difference. At ACNE RX, we offer personalised treatment plans tailored to your skin’s needs.
Contact us today to book your consultation and start your journey to clearer, healthier skin!
