There are an estimated 60 million people worldwide who suffer from acne. Many people develop acne during puberty. It is most prevalent among 16- to 18-year-olds. The exact cause of acne is unknown, but doctors believe it is due to a number of related factors. Another important factor is the increase in hormones called androgens. This increase in boys and girls during puberty also causes sebaceous glands to grow and produce more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills can also cause acne.
Like a normal skin condition, acne has the potential to have a profound effect on the health of young people. It is estimated that 85% of teens have acne. Although we as adults know that acne will pass, this is a small comfort to a young person who is experiencing embarrassment, anxiety, diminished self-esteem or even depression as a result. We as parents need support, but that is not enough. Parents need to provide information and guidance on how to treat acne. In many cases treatment can significantly reduce the effects of acne.
For many adults, what was once thought to be youthful misery has continued for some twenty-three years. For some adults with acne, the onset of the disease did not begin until they were in their late teens.
The causes of adult acne vary and can be any other or a combination of the following conditions.
Depression
Until recently, depression-related acne was a myth. Researchers are now beginning to understand the relationship between depression and acne. In adults with acne, depression is considered to be the leading cause of post-pubescent rash.
When under stress, the brain initiates a central nervous system, which sends signals throughout the body as part of an ancient war or flight response. Part of this response is the release of adrenal gland hormones and the release of sebaceous glands, which lie beneath the skin.
Both hormonal imbalances and fat loss, which can clog the pores, have a known effect on acne.
Hormonal imbalances
Hormonal imbalances as a cause of acne in adults mainly affect women. Irregularities that occur during a woman's menstrual cycle or due to pregnancy can lead to the development of acne.
There are older men who report having acne scars every month. Although men apparently do not menstruate, it is believed that men may have hormonal cycles similar to those of women.
Coffee Use Adults tend to drink more coffee than teens. The caffeine found in coffee and tea stimulates the production of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone. As noted, hormonal imbalances are known to contribute to an increase in the number of adults.
Smoking
Chemicals introduced into the body through smoking reduce blood circulation to skin cells, inhibiting the skin's ability to heal and regenerate. Toxins from cigarette smoke can clog the pores and promote the growth of bacteria in the pores, all of which contribute to the increase in acne.
Inheritance
Recent research has shown that people are at greater risk for acne if they have a family history of acne.
Environment Working conditions that expose the skin to high levels of dirt, irritants, or moisture can lead to an increase in adult acne.
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