Have you ever experienced eating your favourite biryani or indulging in deep-fried snacks, only to wake up the next day with a pesky pimple on your forehead? It's a disappointment, right? Well, you're not alone! It's a common issue among teenagers and adults alike. A 2024 research by Scientific Reports shows that around 10 per cent of the world’s population suffers from acne. 

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So, what exactly causes these annoying pimples? 

Did you know that your skin pores contain oil glands called sebaceous glands? These glands produce an oil called sebum, which helps to lubricate your skin and hair. However, when your body begins to mature and develop, hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to make more sebum, which can lead to clogged pores. When there is an excess of sebum and dead skin cells, your pores become clogged, and bacteria like Propionibacterium can get trapped inside and multiply, causing swelling and redness - the start of acne.  

Whiteheads and blackheads are two types of acne that form when the pores get clogged. Whiteheads occur when a pore gets clogged and closes, bulging out from the skin. Blackheads, on the other hand, occur when a pore gets clogged but stays open, with a darker top surface. Pimples are another type of acne that forms when the wall of a pore opens up and lets sebum, bacteria, and dead skin cells make their way under the skin. Sometimes, pimples have a pus-filled top from the body's reaction to the bacterial infection. 

Lastly, a clogged pore that opens up very deep in the skin can cause nodules. These infected lumps or cysts are bigger than pimples and can be painful. So, be sure to take good care of your skin by keeping it clean and moisturised to avoid clogged pores that can lead to acne.

 

Related story: The Real Reason Behind Your Acne Breakout

 

Factors That Contribute Development of Acne

One can be tired of dealing with acne and may be unsure what's causing it. Well, several factors contribute to it, including sebum and keratin production, acne-causing bacteria, hormones, blocked pores, and inflammation. But, did you know that other things like genetics, excess sunlight, certain medications, oil-based cosmetics, tight-fitting clothing, and endocrine or hormonal disorders can also play a role? And that's not all.

• 2022 research by the Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology shows that what you eat can also significantly impact acne development. Things like glycemic content and dairy can influence hormones like insulin, insulin-like growth factor 1, and androgens, which can affect acne genesis. So, it's not just about what you put on your skin but also what you put in your body. Foods with a high glycemic index, such as sweets, sugary drinks, and processed snacks, can contribute to acne by raising insulin levels and increasing sebum production. Along with this, dairy products, particularly skimmed milk, may aggravate acne due to hormones and growth factors present in milk.  Greasy and oily foods can contribute to acne by increasing oil production in the skin and potentially clogging pores. 
• Besides, fluctuations in hormones, particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil, leading to acne.  
• Some of your favourite makeup, skin care, and hair care products could be causing acne breakouts. These products often contain oil or other ingredients that can clog your pores, leading to those annoying blemishes. Even if you're using non-comedogenic products, sharing makeup with your friends can also lead to breakouts.
• Now, let's talk about post-workout skincare. We all know that sweating is good for our health, but did you know that rubbing sweat from your skin can actually cause breakouts? Yes, that's true! When you rub your skin with a towel to remove sweat, it can irritate your skin, leading to inflammation and breakouts.
• As a matter of fact, tight clothing you wear, backpacks, helmets, or anything that causes pressure on your skin can make your acne worse. Especially on areas like your face, neck, and back. So, it's always better to wear comfortable clothes and accessories to avoid unnecessary skin irritation.  
• Also, if you don't cleanse your skin regularly, it can lead to a buildup of oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. This can clog your pores and contribute to acne. So, make sure you keep your skin clean and fresh by washing it regularly with a gentle cleanser. Your skin will thank you for it!

By being aware of these factors, individuals can take steps to manage their diet and lifestyle to help prevent and manage acne.

 

Related story: The Reason Behind Body Acne and How To Get Rid of It

 

How To Stop Getting Acne?

Preventing acne can be tricky, but it's not impossible. One popular thumb rule is to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush out toxins and keep your skin hydrated.  Here are some strategies that can help minimise the occurrence of acne:  
1. Keep your skin clean and hydrated by using a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser and moisturiser. Avoid harsh scrubbing or abrasive skincare products that can irritate the skin and worsen acne. 
2. Be mindful of what you eat and try to limit or avoid high glycemic index foods, sugary snacks, beverages, and dairy products. 
3. Practise stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or hobbies you enjoy, and make sure to get enough sleep. 
4. Choose makeup and skincare products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic, and remove makeup before bed. Avoid touching your face with your hands and clean your glasses or sunglasses regularly. 
5. Protect your skin from the sun by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Exercise regularly, but make sure to shower afterward to remove sweat and oil from your skin. 

 

Related story: Could One of These Habits be Causing Acne?

 

When to See A Dermatologist?

If over-the-counter treatments aren't effective, consider seeing a dermatologist for personalised skincare advice and prescription medications such as topical retinoids, antibiotics, or oral contraceptives (for females). Book an appointment with a dermatologist from UR.Life who can help you find the right treatment for your skin. They may recommend a prescription-strength acne treatment that can effectively tackle even the most stubborn cases of acne. Remember, with the right help, clearer skin is within reach for virtually everyone. 

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to preventing acne. It may take time to find the right combination of skincare products and lifestyle changes that work best for your skin, so be patient and stick with your routine.

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