The Truth Behind Acne

Q: What are the most common myths associated with acne?

Definitely the causes! Unfortunately the universal beliefs of acne causes could not be further from the truth. Let’s start with the most common: certain foods like chocolate, greasy fries and pizza will not result in a breakout (though constant poor diet and nutrition will ultimately have an effect on skin health.) Makeup - believed to be another culprit - should not be blamed. The vast majority of today’s cosmetics are non-comedogenic, meaning they will not clog pores and those that do should not be on store shelves! Another thing to keep in mind is that the sun will not clear up the skin. In fact, it can only make it worse -- prolonged exposure will actually darken acne’s unsightly souvenir, post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation.

Q: So then what does cause acne?

There are four major causes to be acknowledged:
Hormones: The body produces hormones called androgens. Androgens cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and are also responsible for acne flare-ups associated with the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

Extra sebum: When the sebaceous gland is stimulated by androgens, it produces extra sebum. On its journey up the follicle toward the surface, the sebum mixes with common skin bacteria and dead skin cells that have been shed from the lining of the follicle. Extra sebum in the follicle increases the chances of acne-causing clogs. Plus, sebum is a breeding ground for bacteria.

Follicle fallout: Normally, dead cells within the follicle shed gradually and are expelled onto the skin’s surface. Sometimes, these dead skin cells mix with a surplus of sebum and form a plug in the follicle, preventing the skin from finishing its natural process of renewal.

Inflammation: When your body encounters unwanted bacteria, it sends an army of white blood cells to attack the intruders. This is what causes pimples to become red, swollen and painful.

Q: Is benzoyl peroxide the best over-the-counter treatment?

For years, it has been the #1 go-to over-the-counter treatment for acne due to its powerful bacteria killing properties. The only problem? It is extremely drying and even causes a rebound” effect that occur with many popular acne regimens. This happens because benzoyl peroxide strips the skin of the oils it needs to remain healthy and balanced. As a result, the skin reacts by producing excess sebum that causes further breakouts. Salicylic acid, tea tree oil, essential fatty acids and zinc sulfate are all ideal ingredients to combat acne and are much gentler on the skin.

Q: Is acne contagious

Yes, it’s very contagious! When a pore becomes clogged or erupts into an infection, it puts pressure on the neighboring pores and hair follicles. When this happens, the pores are unable to release sebum as they should naturally. In turn, the neighboring pores become clogged and infected themselves.

Q: What is the story with zinc and acne?

Zinc sulfate is a supplement that helps calm acne-prone skin. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that people with a zinc deficiency are more susceptible to developing acne! More specifically, zinc is an ardent infection and bacteria fighter – it aids in the healing of tissue, helps the body to resist infection and inflammation and can even help to prevent scarring. When skin erupts into an acneic infection of bacteria and sebum, a zinc deficiency will make it almost impossible for the body to fight the outbreak off. Consequentially, it can lead to a vicious cycle of unending breakouts.