Acne can affect people at one time or another during their lives. This can occur during puberty, pregnancy as well as menopausal change. Acne generally occurs during adolescence and can continue for many into their 20's and 30's.
An increase in the hormone Testosterone is the most common cause driving the condition. Acne often affects areas of the skin density populated with sebaceous follicles such as the face, upper part of the chest, neck and back. Severe acne is an inflammatory condition, however acne can also manifest in non-inflammatory forms.
There are many factors that drive the condition but the predominant cause relates to hormonal fluctuations, causing excess sebum production. This over production of sebum mixes with dead skin cells, blocking hair follicles that cause comedones (pimples).
Other aggravating factors that make the condition worse include using incorrect skin care products that contain emulsifiers as well as poor quality make-up and primes.
The cause of acne has been associated with genetic factors (mum or dad will have had the same issues), nutritional deficiencies (especially zinc, vitamin A, Vitamin D3), dietary factors, food allergies and gut issues. Stress often makes the condition worse.
It is essential that your skin be assessed to determine your acne type. We can then customise a treatment protocol as well as recommend functional tests and dietary dietary changes that will restore hormone balance and skin health.
