Question: What causes or worsens acne?

Answer: Researchers are still trying to fully understand the exact causes of acne. Although the entire story is not clear, here are some factors that are known.

• Hormones are a key factor – particularly an increase in a type of androgen (male sex hormone). These increase in both males and females at puberty, which is why acne is so common among teenagers. But, other hormonal changes like pregnancy, the menstrual cycle and birth control pills (starting or stopping) can trigger acne.

• Heredity appears to also play a role. If there is a strong family history of acne, you’re more likely to get it.

• Diet may play a role, though the old idea that chocolate or French fries cause acne has gone by the wayside. A large-scale study recently concluded that dairy foods are a factor in acne, arguably due to the hormones present in milk (either naturally or from hormones given to cows). Another study looked at people in primitive cultures, where the western diet was not present and found virtually no acne – whether in adolescents or adults. The implication is that the western diet we all eat may play a role. Future research may clarify this further.

• Greasy cosmetics may also contribute to acne development by helping to block the pores.

• Stress probably does not cause acne, but evidence suggests that it can contribute to flare-ups or make existing acne worse.

• Other things that can make acne worse include:

- Using cosmetics that are NOT ‘non-comedogenic’
- Menstrual cycle (especially just before the period)
- Hot, humid and polluted environments
- Damage or irritation to the skin (such as from hard scrubbing of the face; - Chafing from clothing, goggles, helmets; etc.)
- Squeezing pimples. Don't do it!

For more information on acne and its causes, the National Institutes of Health is a good resource.

Does everyone outgrow their acne?

While virtually everyone has at least the occasional pimple as an adolescent, by their early- to mid-twenties, most adults no longer experience acne.

However, there are many adults who do have acne well into middle age and even beyond. The large majority of these adults are women, though men can also have acne into their 50’s or beyond.

For more information about acne and it's causes, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

 

Other relevant information about the causes of acne:

Diet and Acne: What Is The Best Diet To Prevent Acne?

Hormones and Acne: What Role Do Hormones Play?

Skin Irritation From Acne Treatments

 

 

 

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