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What Causes Acne Blemishes?

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By Kelly Sundstrom
eHow Contributing Writer
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What Causes Acne Blemishes?
What Causes Acne Blemishes?
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Acne is the result of oil becoming clogged in the skin follicles, thereby becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. As the bacteria grows it creates areas of inflammation that becomes trapped under the skin, also known as acne. Acne can be caused by many different factors, each requiring a specific treatment method. There are certain forms of acne that are resistant to traditional treatments that use creams and toners to heal and prevent the return of acne. To discover how best to treat your acne, it is first important to find out what may be causing your acne break-outs.

    Stress

  1.  
    Stress releases certain chemicals in the body, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which cause disruption to the proper functioning of the organs of the body, including the skin. As the functioning of the skin decreases, such as the regulation of oil production, acne can form. To treat stress-related acne, make attempts to reduce stress and anxiety in your daily life. Consider drinking a calming tea throughout the day, such as chamomile.
  2. Hormones

  3.  
    Hormones can surge during specific periods in a person's life, such as during puberty and pregnancy, and can also surge due to an imbalance in hormone production. When hormone levels become too high, the body starts to over-produce oil in the skin, which results in acne. To treat hormone-induced acne, try to start a vigorous exercise program daily and include fresh fruits and vegetables into the diet. Avoid refined sugars and dairy products that can exacerbate hormonal acne.
  4. Allergic Reaction

  5.  
    Acne can result from food allergies as well as allergies to substances that could come into contact with the skin. Products that can touch the skin, such as cleaners, lotions and detergents, may cause irritation and acne that seems inflamed. As these chemicals react and inflame the skin, the inflamed skin can cause oil to congest in the follicles, allowing bacteria to grow and acne to form. To treat allergy-induced acne, avoid foods that cause itching or inflammation, and try to avoid soaps, lotions, cleaners and detergents that contain harsh chemicals and perfumes.
  6. Product Overuse

  7.  
    Acne can worsened from the overuse of skin care products. Certain products are comedogenic, meaning that they contain substances that can clog pores. Also, products sold to treat acne often contain harsh chemicals that can irritate and inflame the skin. The more that these products are used, the more clogged and irritated the skin become, leading to bacteria formation and acne.To treat acne that is a result from overusing products, try using only natural products on the skin that do not contain artificial or chemical ingredients.
  8. Overpicking the Skin

  9.  
    Acne can be caused by over-zealously picking at your skin. Picking and prodding the skin causes the skin to become red and damaged, and can push dirt and oils into the pores. This clogging of the pores and bacteria build-up can result in an increase in pustule and cystic acne. To treat acne caused by picking the skin, try to reduce the amount of time you spend in front of the mirror, and avoid touching your face as much as possible.
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eHow Article: What Causes Acne Blemishes?

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