Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is a skin condition caused by the blockage and inflammation of hair follicles and sebaceous glands. During adolescence, hormonal stimulation promotes hair growth and increases sebum production, making it easier for bacteria to attach to the skin and cause redness and swelling, which is the reason why teenage girls often experience acne.
From a physiological perspective, acne mainly occurs within the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of the skin. The sebaceous glands enter the skin through the ducts and block the pores, preventing the skin from breathing and forming a sebaceous plug. When this sebaceous plug, which cannot be naturally expelled by the sebaceous glands, blocks the hair follicle for a long time, it can cause damage to the skin around the follicle. Combined with the secretion of hormones and stimuli to the body, it can result in the formation of red and swollen acne.
Factors contributing to acne formation
The causes of acne are multifaceted, including genetic factors, environmental factors, cosmetics, and psychological stress. However, there is also a phenomenon where many people have acne all over their faces even after adolescence. This is because the end of adolescence does not necessarily mean the disappearance of acne.
Main causes
1. Internal factors
(1) Excessive secretion of androgens is the main cause. This is also why acne in boys during adolescence is generally more severe than in girls. Androgens can directly stimulate the increase of sebaceous glands, promote follicular keratinization, block the pores, and cause inflammation, resulting in the formation of acne.
(2) Internal diseases in the body, such as gastric, renal, and hepatic disorders, especially gastrointestinal disorders and constipation, can induce acne.
(3) Female-specific physiological cycle. Some women experience worsened acne before menstruation, mainly due to hormonal imbalances during the menstrual period.
(4) Psychological stress, excessive fatigue, and lack of sleep.
2. External factors
(1) Improper hygiene. If the skin is not properly cleaned, there may be accumulations on the skin surface, hindering the free breathing of the pores and leading to the formation of acne.
(2) Incorrect handling methods, such as squeezing with hands. Some people squeeze pimples without realizing that this can cause bacterial infection.
(3) Use of inferior cosmetics, such as compact powder and foundation.
(4) Damage from ultraviolet rays and certain chemicals.
(5) Excessive consumption of greasy, spicy, and stimulating foods, as well as sweets.
Many girls experience acne, so it is important not to worry too much about acne, but to take it seriously. In daily life, it is important to develop a habit of going to bed and waking up early, ensuring sufficient sleep, avoiding spicy and stimulating foods, eating fresh vegetables and fruits, and drinking plenty of water, which can help alleviate the symptoms of acne.
