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The over-stimulation
of the sebaceous glands results in the excess production
of sebum and the clogging up of the hair follicles by
dead skin cells that haven’t shed properly (because
of the excess oil). The term “Comedo” is used to describe
a sebaceous follicle that is clogged up with excess
sebum, dead skin cells, tiny hairs and sometimes, bacteria
(called Propionibacterium). We call them pimples. When
a comedo is raised but there is no opening or only a
very small opening to the skin’s surface, it is called
a Whitehead. Where the clogged sebaceous follicle has
an expanded opening with a blackish appearance, it is
known as a Blackhead. Sometimes this “pimple stage” of Acne,
progresses to nodules, which can become extremely painful
and result in scarring. The nodules are a severe form
of Acne characterized by significant inflammation extending
into the deeper layers of the skin. |
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More than anything else, acne (and acne scarring) can be highly embarrassing and distressing for the sufferer. Seriuos forms of Acne can result in disfigurement in the form of acne scarring.
This troublesome skin condition takes no
prisoners – it affects both males and females, irrespective
of race.
CAUSES
OF ACNE
The underlying cause of Acne is not fully
understood. The development of Acne is a complex, metabolic
process and it is not known why some sebaceous follicles get
clogged while others do not.
Scientists and the medical fraternity suspect that many factors may combine to cause Acne. Clearly, one significant factor can be an increase in male sex hormones (called androgens) in both males and females during puberty. It is also well known that hormonal imbalances related to pregnancy or the use of birth control pills can also cause Acne.
Other suggested factors range from diet, stress, vitamin deficiency,
heredity or genetics, certain drugs (such as Lithium and Androgens)
through to certain skin care products such as creasy moisturizers
and cosmetics.
Many doctors will say that there is no link between diet and Acne. Just because two people are on the same diet and only one of them gets Acne doesn't mean that diet is not one of the factors that contibutes to the cause of Acne or aggravation of the condition. There are many former Acne sufferers who will tell you that diet had a lot to do with them finding a solution to their Acne problem. It should be remembered that because of the way the relationship between the medical profession and pharmaceutical (drug companies) is structured, doctors and dermatologists have a vested interest in prescribing medication, rather than change of diet. Of course, there's also the fact that it is the big drug companies who fund most of the reasearch and they're not interested in chocolate, greasy foods or diary products playing any role in a cure for Acne.
Will a change of diet alone cure Acne? Probably not, unless your Acne is actually an allergic reaction to certain foods (such as diary products), but it may help. It is certainly the case that eating the wrong types of food may aggravate a pre-existing Acne condition.
The same goes for stress and personal cleanliness. While there is little evidence to suggest that stress and/or dirty skin causes Acne, both factors may well worsen the condition.
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