An acne blemish is an inappropriate
inflammation caused by excess sebum, which leads to bacteria and dead skin
cells clogging up the pores. Whilst it presents no immediate danger, acne can
have lasting effects on self-esteem, and is experienced by around 85% of the
population.
Stress
Stress cantrigger breakouts and make existing issues worse due to the production of CRH—or
corticotropin-releasing hormone—in stressed individuals. CRH can bind to
receptors in the skin’s sebaceous glands, causing an increase in the skin’s oil
production, and subsequently, inflammation.
Stress can also trigger a nerve signaling that causes an itch,
which in turn, can cause people to scratch or pick at their skin, therefore opening
it up to bacteria, or simply making existing blemishes worse.
Stress is also linked to poor sleep and poor diet, both of
which could contribute to acne.
It is believed that stress can affect the immune system in a
way that slows the healing process, which results in pimples taking longer to
heal and becoming more likely to scar.
Hormones
It is widely believed that the main cause of hormonal acne is a rise in
androgen levels. Androgen levels rise during puberty, which is when most
children start to experience problems with acne.
Androgen levels cause the oil glands under the skin to grow,
and the enlarged gland subsequently produces excess sebum. Sebum can break down
cellular walls in the pores, which provides an ideal environment for bacteria
to grow.
Hygiene
Whilst having dirty skin is not a factor contributing to
acne, it has been found that in an effort to combat the symptoms of acne,
sufferers can be tempted to scrub their face too hard, or use harsh chemicals
on their skin that can actually increase the level of inflammation, and make
the acne worse. Alternatively, sufferers should look to use natural products
that are gentle and kind on the skin, ortry natural face masks for acne in an attempt to clear the skin of excess
sebum, and cleanse it of any bacteria that may have formed there.
Diet
Whilst it is certainly true that more research is required
to identify the exact relationship between diet and acne, it is believed that
diet can play a major role in the development and control of acne.
It is believed that foods that cause a spike in glycemic
load can cause a spike in IGF-1 levels within the body, which in turn,
increases the production of sebum. Foods with a high glycemic load include:
·
breads, especially white bread and bagels
·
sweetened breakfast cereals, such as those with
corn flakes, puffed rice, and bran flakes
·
instant cereals, such as oatmeal and grits
·
some fruits and vegetables, including melons,
pineapples, pumpkins, and potatoes
·
enriched pastas, such as rice-based pasta
·
short-grain white rice
·
snack foods, such as pretzels, rice cakes, and
popcorn
On the flip side, whilst more research is certainly
required, it is believed that a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation,
and therefore improve acne. As well as this, a diet that is rich in
antioxidants and dietary fiber may also help to combat acne.