Acne prone skin cheat sheet

Causes

• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause, can increase the production of sebum (oil) and cause skin to be more prone to pimples.
• Excessive sun exposure and/or inappropriate sun protection: Some people who are prone to acne find that their skin condition in worse during the summertime due to reaction of sweat overproduction, skin dry out and skin thickening.
• Bacteria: Propionibacterium acnes is a type of bacteria that naturally lives on the skin. When the skin's pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, P. acnes can multiply, leading to skin breakouts.
• Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to develop pimple-prone skin, meaning they have a family history of acne.
• Diet: A diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugar may increase insulin levels, leading to increased production of sebum, which can make the skin more prone to pimples.
• Stress: Stress can increase the production of hormones such as cortisol, which can increase oil production and make the skin more prone to pimples.
• Skincare products: Some skincare products, such as those that are too heavy, can clog pores and make the skin more prone to pimples.

Symptoms

• Clogged Pores: Bumps on the face can be caused by clogged pores filled with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria.
• Inflammation signs: Inflammation can occur when bacteria and other irritants penetrate the skin's barrier and trigger an immune response, leading to red, swollen pimples.
• Breakouts: Skin prone to acne is characterized by frequent breakouts of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
• Excess Sebum Production: Overproduction of sebum can cause the skin to become oily, leading to clogged pores and pimple formation.

Examples

Impact on the skin

• Low self-esteem: Bumps on the face can cause feelings of self-consciousness and impact self-esteem.
• Physical discomfort: Pimples can be painful and cause physical discomfort, especially when they are inflamed.
• Skin marks: If not treated properly, pimples can lead to marks (known as acne scares). This can result in permanent marks on the skin that can be difficult to remove.
• Spread of bacteria: Picking or squeezing pimples can spread bacteria and cause further outbreaks.
• Emotional distress: Breakouts can cause emotional distress and impact overall mental wellbeing.