Causes of Acne on the Face

Acne

Acne is a prevalent skin condition that occurs when dead skin cells and natural oils accumulate in the skin’s pores and hair follicles, leading to blockages. Adolescents are the most commonly affected due to hormonal changes experienced during puberty; however, this issue can affect people of all ages at various stages of life. In this article, we will explore the causes of acne and discuss effective ways to combat it.

Causes of Acne

There are several factors that can contribute to the exacerbation of acne. Below are some of the primary causes:

• Hormonal changes in your body: These fluctuations, particularly those that occur before menstruation, are often the main reason for acne flare-ups.
• Stress and pressure: These conditions can lead to additional hormonal changes within your body. When you experience stress, the adrenal glands produce cortisol, a hormone that helps the body cope with stressful situations.
• Environmental pollution: This can lead to the accumulation of dirt on your face.
• Using products that are unsuitable for your skin type: This is particularly problematic for individuals with oily or combination skin. We recommend opting for oil-free or water-based skincare products, which help prevent pore blockage and reduce acne occurrences.
• Over-cleaning your face: Frequent washing can worsen acne; therefore, it is advisable to cleanse your face no more than twice a day. Excessive washing can result in dryness, prompting your skin to produce more oil.

Foods That May Trigger Acne

Previously, the connection between diet and acne remained a topic of debate; however, recent studies have confirmed that nutrition plays a significant role in the severity of acne. Here are some food categories that can worsen acne conditions:

• Refined carbohydrates, including white bread, cookies, pastries made with white flour, white pasta, white rice, sugary sodas, and sweetened beverages.
• Dairy products.
• Fast food.
• Foods high in omega-6 fatty acids.
• Chocolate.
• Allergenic foods.

Types of Acne and Common Locations

There are six primary types of acne:

• Blackheads: These occur when clogged pores open, causing oil to oxidize and appear dark due to exposure to air.
• Whiteheads: These types are characterized by closed and hardened pores, making them difficult to squeeze.
• Papules: These are red, inflamed bumps that can be painful to the touch.
• Pustules: Similar to papules, but filled with pus and featuring a white tip.
• Nodules: Large, hard lumps beneath the skin that can be quite painful.
• Cysts: These are large pus-filled lumps resembling boils.

Acne typically develops in areas rich in sebaceous glands, such as the face, chest, shoulders, and back.

Natural Remedies for Acne

To alleviate acne, consider the following home remedies:

• Oatmeal: Oatmeal is an excellent remedy for minimizing acne due to its ability to clean pores and absorb excess oil. Additionally, it acts as a natural exfoliant. Here’s how to create this remedy:
  • Ingredients:
    • 1 teaspoon of honey.
    • ½ fresh lemon.
    • 1 cup of cooked oatmeal.
  • Preparation Steps:
    • Thoroughly mix all the ingredients.
    • Apply the mixture to your face and gently massage.
    • Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
    • Repeat this remedy once or twice a week.
• Lemon Juice: With its acidic properties, lemon juice serves as a powerful solution for acne. It helps to clean out debris in pores and transforms oils to a solid state. Here’s how to prepare this treatment:
  • Ingredients:
    • Sufficient quantity of lemon juice.
    • An equal amount of rose water.
  • Preparation Steps:
    • Mix the ingredients well.
    • Apply the mixture to the affected areas and wash with it.
    • Use this remedy once daily, unless you have dry skin, in which case performing it every two to three days is advisable.

Medical Treatments for Acne

While some acne types can be managed without a prescription, others may require consultation with a dermatologist. Some treatments may take a few months before showing effectiveness. Below are some commonly used medical treatments:

• Benzoyl Peroxide.
• Retinoids.
• Azelaic Acid.
• Antibiotics.
• Hormonal therapies.