What is acne?

 

Human skin, especially on the face, neck, back, and chest, is covered in hundreds of thousands of pores. For reasons no one completely understands, these pores sometimes overproduce cells and become blocked.  Sebum (oil) which normally drains to the surface gets trapped and bacteria begins to grow.

 

What causes acne?

 

• Hormones: Acne is at least in part a hormonal disease.  We know this because acne symptoms start only after adequate levels of hormones are present during puberty.  Also, we know that acne symptoms usually increase when androgen (male hormone) levels increase.  Exactly how and why this occurs is unknown.

• Stress: The mind and the body are connected.  This is not Eastern philosophy, it is undisputable physical reality.  Emotional stress affects our endocrine (hormone) system, digestive system, respiratory system, immune system, and various other bodily systems.  We know that stress can aggravate acne, but exactly why remains a mystery.  

• Bacteria: Propionibacterium acnes is a strain of bacteria that is a factor in acne development.

• Genetics: If your parents had acne, chances are you will as well.  However, with treatment, acne may be prevented and scars minimized.  

• The real explanation is likely a complex mix of the above factors.  

 

How is acne treated?

 

There are many different types of acne treatments including prescription topical and/or oral medication.

Schedule an appointment with our providers to find out the best solution for you!