Topics: acne, skin care, skin problems
Acne is usual for adolescent and young people under 20.
Acne is a disease of sebaceous glands and hair follicles of the skin characterized by blockage of pores and the occurrence of skin damage (lesions), also called pimples or white heads. Skin acne lesions appear most often on the face, neck, back, chest and shoulders. Although acne is usually not a serious health threat, it can lead to significant emotional problems, and severe forms of acne can cause permanent scars.
Mechanism of occurrence of acne
Doctors describe acne as a disease of the sebaceous gland complex – the hair follicle. Hair follicles with sebaceous glands are scattered all over, as sebaceous gland is associated with a channel called the follicle, containing little hairs. They are most numerous on the face, upper back and chest. Sebaceous glands produce a secretion called sebum, which normally leads to the skin surface through the pore – opening of the follicle. Follicles containing cells called keratinocytes.
Causes of acne
The exact cause of acne is unknown, but physicians believe that the disease is the result of many interrelated factors. An important factor is the increase of hormones androgens (male sex hormones). During puberty, these hormones increase in both boys and girls and their impact in the sebaceous glands enlarge and produce too much mucus. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy or starting / stopping the birth control pills can also cause acne.
Another factor is heredity or genetic factors. Some researchers believe that the tendency to develop acne can be inherited from parents, as certain studies have shown that many students with acne is a family history of disease. It is known that some drugs like androgens and lithium cause acne. Oily cosmetics can cause changes in cells of follicles in which these cells adhere and form a “cap”.
Factors that may worsen acne
The following factors may cause worsening of acne:
Change in hormone levels in adolescent girls and women from 2 to 7 days before the menstrual cycle
Use of oily cosmetics (moisturizers, cosmetics) or contact with oil during operation (eg frying in the kitchen)
Sports helmets or other sporting equipment, compressive skin, backpacks, tight collars, or tight sports uniforms
Environment, pollution or high humidity
Squeezing or white-tipped drill
Strong rubbing of the skin (scratching)
Stress
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