Unmasking the Culprits: Understanding What’s Causing Your Acne
Acne is far more than just a superficial skin issue; it’s a complex, chronic inflammatory condition that affects millions of people across all age groups. It can impact self-esteem and quality of life, leading many to search desperately for the root cause of their breakouts. While the immediate visible cause is typically a clogged pore, the underlying triggers are systemic and multifaceted, involving a delicate interplay of hormones, genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Understanding these primary culprits is the essential first step toward finding an effective, long-term solution.
The Fundamental Four: How Acne Forms
Regardless of the external trigger, all acne forms follow a basic biological pathway involving four key components:
1. Excessive Sebum Production
Sebum is an oily substance produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands. Its function is to lubricate the skin and hair. However, when the glands produce an excessive amount of sebum, the skin becomes oily, creating … Read more