What causes acne? There are several things that can lead to acne. Five of the principal factors are hormones, excess sebum, follicle fallout, bacteria and swelling.

Fluctuation in Hormone Levels

Hormones can cause acne during puberty and continue into adulthood. During adolescence the body begins to produce hormones called androgens. Androgens cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge (hormonal acne may result).

When the sebaceous become stimulated by androgens, they release a large amount of sebum. This abrupt production of sebum can damage the hair follicle and make it weaker against bacteria. This is a normal process of growing up.

Excess Sebum

Excess sebum also contributes to the development of acne. The amount of sebum that is produced also depends on androgens. As sebum makes its way to the skin's surface it combines with skin bacteria and dead skin cells that have been shed from the lining of the follicle.

This increases the chances of clogged pores, which can result in acne.

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. This process is very important for keeping the skin performing properly.

Clog pores are the perfect place for the proliferation of bacteria. The bacteria cause a chemical reaction known as inflammation. This reaction is the main cause of redness, pain and swelling.

Inflammation is a natural process that helps the body get rid of foreign objects or infection, but it can also cause 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 Types of Acne

There are also several different kinds of acne. Some examples are acne rosacea and . Comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts are the usual ways in which acne manifests itself.

Comedones are considered to be the only form of non-inflammatory acne Whiteheads are closed comedos because they usually appear as small white bumps.

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. Pustules are small round lesions with visible pus. They are caused by the chemical irritation to fatty free acids.

Nodules are painful 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. Both nodules and cysts can lead to significant scarring.

Cysts, nodules and acne scarring can be dealt with successfully with the appropriate natural skin care products. BIOSKINFORTE has been proven effective and address most of the causes of acne as well as enhancing the immune system. Try our natural skin care line today!