Causes And Cures Of Adult Acne
Adult acne is similar to adolescent acne. It can be either non-inflammatory
such as whiteheads and blackheads, or inflammatory with tender, red bumps. Acne
occurs when the hair follicles become clogged. There are tiny hair follicles
all over the face and body. To understand what happens to cause acne, in both adults and teens, you need
to understand the makeup of these hair follicles.
Each hair follicle has a small oil-producing gland associated with it, called
the sebaceous gland, under the skin. These glands produce oil called sebum.
It is used to lubricate the skin and hair. The skin is always shedding old skin
while growing new skin. Acne occurs when there is a buildup of sebum and/or
skin cells in the hair follicle, causing it to become plugged up. The result
is acne.
There are many factors that may contribute to the excess production of sebum
in the hair follicles. Several of these factors combined may be the reason you
are getting acne. Because of the complexity of possible causes, a dermatologist
may not be able to pinpoint the exact causes. Instead, he will treat your acne
based on the most likely causes in your particular case.
Genetics
Heredity may play a huge role in adult acne. If your parents or grandparents
had acne chances are you will have it also. The sebum production in the hair
follicles as well as the amount of dead skin cells you shed can be directly
related to genetics. If you know that there is acne in your family you should
let your dermatologist know. This may help to more quickly deal with the problem.
The doctor will know that certain treatments will be more effective than others
and can start with those treatments first.
Hormones
Hormones may be a very big contributing factor in getting acne. A specific hormone,
called an androgen, is one of the main causes of acne. Androgen is a male sex
hormone present in both men and women. These hormones cause the sebaceous glands
in the hair follicles to enlarge and produce more oil. In women, the monthly
changes in hormone levels make the sebaceous glands more sensitive and allow
them to produce too much sebum. This accounts for why many women report acne
skin breakouts at certain times of the month.
Sweat and heat
Excess sweat and heat can cause the glands to overproduce sebum and at the same
time the skin is unable to use it. This can cause the hair follicles to become
clogged more easily. Body acne, particularly on the back and arms, is often
associated with wearing tight clothing while sweating. The body is unable to
get rid of the sweat. Try to avoid this by wearing loose fitting clothing made
of cotton or other natural fibers that can more easily wick the water away.
Take a shower as soon as possible.
Stress
Stress can play a part in adult acne. Many adults are in stressful situations
on a daily basis. Excessive stress can cause the body to release hormones that
contribute to acne. If you are under stressful situations you should try to
use some stress relief techniques.
Medications
Sometimes medications that you are taking for other ailments can contribute
to your adult acne. Make sure you let your dermatologist know if you are taking any other
prescriptions so they can determine if that is causing your acne. Don't stop
taking your medication unless directed to by a physician. Instead, find out
if there are other medications that could be taken as a replacement.
Adult Onset Acne
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