Acne is caused by a combination of factors that clog your pores and trigger inflammation. Here’s a clear breakdown:
π¬ 4 Main Causes of Acne
1. Excess Oil (Sebum) Production
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Hormonal shifts (especially during puberty, periods, or stress) increase oil
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Too much oil mixes with dead skin and clogs pores
2. Clogged Pores
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Dead skin cells don’t shed properly and get trapped
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Mixes with oil and creates blockages (whiteheads, blackheads)
3. Bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes)
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This bacteria lives on your skin naturally
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When trapped in a clogged pore, it multiplies and causes inflammation
4. Inflammation
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Your body reacts to bacteria and clogged pores with redness, swelling, and pus
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Leads to painful pimples, cysts, or nodules
➕ Additional Triggers:
𧬠Hormones
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Puberty, menstrual cycles, PCOS, pregnancy, and stress can spike hormones
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Leads to more oil production and breakouts
𧴠Skincare & Products
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Pore-clogging makeup or heavy creams can worsen acne
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Look for “non-comedogenic” products
π Diet
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High-glycemic foods, dairy, and sugary snacks may trigger breakouts in some people
π° Stress
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Increases cortisol, which boosts oil production
π§Ί Dirty Pillowcases, Phones, and Hands
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Spread bacteria and irritate skin
⚠️ Types of Acne:
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Whiteheads – closed clogged pores
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Blackheads – open clogged pores
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Papules – red, inflamed bumps
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Pustules – pimples with pus
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Cysts/Nodules – deep, painful lumps under the skin