Acne is a common skin issue that affects many individuals, especially teenagers and young adults, leading to significant emotional distress. Understanding the causes and treatments of acne, particularly in adults, can be a multifactorial process.
Adult acne, or post-adolescent acne, occurs after age 25 and is influenced by similar factors as adolescent acne. The four main contributors to acne are excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. When pores become clogged by “sticky” skin cells and excess oil, it can lead to the formation of whiteheads. If these whiteheads are exposed to air, they transform into blackheads. Bacterial growth within these plugged pores can cause red, tender pimples, and in some cases, pus-filled cysts.
Inflammation from acne can lead to the production of melanin, resulting in dark spots known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which is more prevalent in people with darker skin tones. Severe acne can also lead to textural scarring and keloids.
Diet is another aspect that might influence acne. Foods that promote inflammation or affect hormone levels, such as milk and high-sugar foods, can exacerbate acne by causing insulin spikes.
Acne is caused by inflammation in the pilosebaceous unit, which houses the hair follicle and sebaceous gland. The sebaceous gland produces sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin. Interestingly, while the bacteria causing acne live on everyone’s skin, only a fraction of people develop frequent pimples.
New research suggests that increasing the body’s friendly strain of P. acnes bacteria through topical treatments may help manage acne. Blackheads, or open comedones, occur when backed-up material stretches the duct and becomes exposed to air. Pimples, or pustules, arise when this material causes inflammation and redness in surrounding tissues.
For a comprehensive understanding of what causes body acne, refer to The Well by Northwell. For insights into adult acne and its underlying causes, visit Harvard Health. To learn about acne treatments, check out UC Davis Health. Additionally, for information on acne considerations for darker skin, see Harvard Health, and for the role of diet in adult acne, explore Harvard Health.
