Hello, I am Dr. Lee Sang-ju, director of Yonsei Star Dermatology. Many people are concerned about acne, and today I would like to explain in detail the fundamental reasons why acne keeps appearing, from the perspective of a dermatologist.
Why does acne recur?
There are broadly three main reasons why acne occurs. These causes often act in combination to create skin problems.
3 Main Causes of Acne
1. Hormonal Changes and Acne
One of the most representative causes of acne is hormonal changes. Especially during puberty, active hormone secretion often leads to a lot of acne. Women may also experience acne breakouts in line with their menstrual cycle as hormone balance changes. The increased activity of sebaceous glands due to these hormonal influences can affect acne development.
2. The Impact of Lifestyle Habits on Acne
Our lifestyle habits also play a significant role in acne development. The following are lifestyle habits that can worsen acne:
- Lack of Sleep: Insufficient sleep can reduce the skin's regenerative capacity and lead to the secretion of stress hormones, which may promote acne.
- Stress: Excessive stress can cause hormonal imbalance and increase sebum production, leading to more acne.
3. Poor Makeup Habits, a Major Culprit for Acne?
Surprisingly, makeup habits can also be a cause of acne. Incorrect cosmetic choices or improper usage can burden the skin and sometimes trigger acne.
- Heavy Makeup: Makeup products that are too oily or thick can block pores and hinder sebum excretion.
- Improper Cleansing: If makeup is not thoroughly removed, residues can clog pores and worsen acne.
How Acne Develops: The Mechanism of Occurrence
Acne develops through the following process due to various causes:
Due to various hormonal changes, sebum is excessively produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. If this sebum cannot be naturally excreted and the pore opening becomes blocked, it accumulates and forms comedones. Acne bacteria then grow in these comedones, causing inflammation, which ultimately manifests as the acne we know.
Acne Management: Consistency is Key
Acne thus arises from complex causes, and there can be individual differences. Therefore, it is important to carefully examine your skin condition and lifestyle habits, and if necessary, consult with a dermatologist to find appropriate management methods.