What causes acne? There are several things that can lead to acne. The five main causes include hormones, extra sebum, follicle fallout, bacteria and inflammation.

Fluctuation in Hormone Levels

Hormonal fluctuations lead to acne during puberty and that can continue into adulthood. During adolescence the body starts to produce hormones known as androgens. Androgens are responsible for the enlargement of the sebaceous glands (this may lead to hormonal acne).

The sebaceous glands become over stimulated by androgens and release a large amount of sebum. This abrupt production of sebum can damage the hair follicle and make it weaker against bacteria. This process is part of normal development.

Extra Sebum

Extra sebum contributes to acne as well. The amount of sebum that is produced also depends on androgens. The sebum moves up the follicle and mixes with common skin bacteria combined with dead skin cells that have been shed from the lining of the follicle.

This process usually leads to clogged pores and, consequently, to the acne outbreaks.

Follicle Fallout, Bacteria and Inflammation

Follicle fallout is another factor in the development of acne. When dead cells within the follicle shed more rapidly, they combine with excess sebum and hinder the natural renewal process. The renewal process is extremely important to keep the skin functioning as it should.

A clogged pore is the perfect breeding ground for acne bacteria. The bacteria produce a chemical reaction known as inflammation or swelling. This reaction is what causes pimples to become red, painful and swollen.

Inflammation is a natural process by which the body tries to rid itself of a foreign object or infection. However, it can also do damage. When the inflammatory reaction tries to force out the infection, it also damages and destroys healthy cells.

Successful acne treatment will deal with most if not all of the causes of acne.

Different Kinds of Acne

There are also many different types of acne. Acne rosacea and acne vulgaris are some examples of common acne. Comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts are the usual ways in which acne manifests itself.

Comedones are the only known form of non-inflammatory acne Whiteheads are considered closed comedos because the usually appear as small white bumps under the surface of the skin.

An open comedo is one that has been pushed to the skin's surface. These types of comedos are usually called blackhead because of their darkened appearance.

Papules appear as small, solid bumps that can be tender to the touch. Small, round lesions that contain pus are referred to as papules. They are set off by a chemical irritation to fatty free acids.

Nodules are large, extremely painful pus-filled lesions lodged deep within the skin. Nodules develop when the inside of a comedo spills into the surrounding skin, causing the immune system to produce pus.

Cysts are nodules that have become seriously inflamed. They can last for several weeks or months. Nodules and cysts result in deep acne scarring.