What causes acne?
It afflicts millions of people each year, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. But is it true that hormones and carbohydrate-filled foods really cause the biggest symptom of acne – pimples?
Hair follicles produce an oil known as sebum, which limits the amount of water entering our skin.
But when too much sebum is produced, it feeds a bacterium living in your skin known as Propionibacterium acnes, causing your immune system to flush blood and white blood cells to the area.
And if the follicle clogs up, a pimple forms.
It’s also thought carb-rich foods contribute to acne, as they increase a compound in your body known as insulin-like growth factor 1, which turns up sebum production.
Androgens – a family of hormones including testosterone – also boost your body’s sebum production, leading to more pimples.
Puberty and menstruation both cause significant hormonal changes, making teenagers prime candidates for acne and causing many women to break out around the time of their period.
Check out the American Chemical Society’s video above for more, as well as tips on how to minimise and control acne.
Originally published by Cosmos as What really causes pimples and acne?
Jana Howden
Jana Howden completed a double degree in Arts and Science at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.