Causes of Acne

Several factors are thought to be possible causes of acne. For example, hormonal changes, certain drugs, heredity, and greasy makeup may all be causes of acne. While chocolate and greasy foods are often blamed as causes of acne, foods seem to have little effect on the development and course of acne in most people.

 

Causes of Acne: An Overview

The exact cause of acne is unknown, but doctors believe it results from several related factors. The factors that may be causes of acne include:
 
  • The increase in hormones during the teenage years (this can cause oil glands to plug up more often)
  • Hormone changes during pregnancy
  • Starting or stopping birth control pills
  • Heredity (if your parents had acne, you might get it too)
  • Some types of medicine
  • Greasy makeup.

 

Hormonal Causes of Acne

One important factor that may be a cause of acne is an increase in hormones called androgens (male sex hormones). These increase in both boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills can also cause acne.
 

Genetic Causes of Acne

Another possible cause of acne is heredity or genetics. Researchers believe that the tendency to develop acne can be inherited from parents. For example, studies have shown that many school-age boys with acne have a family history of the disorder.
 

Medications as Causes of Acne

Certain drugs, including androgens and lithium, are known to be causes of acne.
 

Cosmetics as Causes of Acne

Greasy cosmetics can be a cause of acne. Acne research scientists believe greasy cosmetics may alter the cells of the follicles and make them stick together, producing a plug.
 
(Causes of Acne Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD