Acne Vulgaris

Acne Vulgaris

What causes acne?

Our sebaceous (oil-producing) glands are affected by our hormones. In people who have acne, the glands are particularly sensitive, even to normal blood levels of these hormones. This causes the glands to produce too much oil. At the same time, the lining of the pores (the small holes in the skin’s surface) becomes thickened and dead skin cells are not shed properly. A mixture of the oil (sebum) and dead skin cells builds up and plugs the pores producing blackheads and whiteheads. The plug of dead skin turns black from exposure to air and not due to dirt. The acne bacteria (now known as Cutibacterium acnes) live on everyone’s skin, usually causing no problems. In those with acne, the build-up of oil creates an ideal environment for the bacteria to multiply. This is accompanied by inflammation which leads to the formation of red, swollen or pus-filled spots.

Acne Vulgaris

Sometimes acne can be caused by medication given for other health conditions or by certain contraceptive injections or pills. Some tablets taken by body-builders contain hormones that can trigger acne too.

Diet can influence acne. High glycaemic index (GI) diets (e.g. sugar and sugary foods, white bread, potatoes, white rice etc) have been shown to cause or aggravate acne. Switching to a low GI diet may lead to fewer spots. There is also some evidence that consuming milk and dairy products may trigger acne in some people, but this hasn’t been studied in as much detail yet.

Most acne sufferers have normal hormone levels if tested; however, acne can sometimes be caused by a problem with the hormones. The most common problem with hormones is polycystic ovarian syndrome in females. If you are a woman and develop irregular periods, unusual hair growth or hair loss or other changes to your body, mention this to your doctor in case it is relevant.