Why Do Some People Break Out?

Acne breakouts can be embarrassing.

Acne is a common skin condition that affects approximately 40 million to 50 million Americans. Although most common in teenagers and young adults, acne can affect people of all age groups. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately 85 percent of teenagers in the United States have acne. Although controlling acne can be difficult, there is a variety of factors that can lead to breakouts.

What Is Acne?

Acne occurs when pores become clogged and oil, called sebum, is unable to drain at the pore's surface. As oil accumulates within the blocked pore, bacteria grows and the surrounding area might become inflamed. The presence of inflammation determines the type of acne: minor inflammation results in whiteheads or blackheads; deeper blockage and some inflammation is called a papule or pimple; and even deeper blockage causes moderate inflammation and a pus-filled pimple called a pustule. Blockage that occurs very deep in the pore causes severe inflammation and a painful nodule or cyst-like pimple.

What Causes Acne?

A variety of factors cause blocked pores and production of oil that cause acne. Hormone variations, common in teenagers, as well as women throughout the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, might affect oil production and lead to acne. Medications such as cortisone also might cause acne. Heredity might play a role, with some people at risk genetically of developing acne, according to MayoClinic.com. Certain behaviors or activities can also increase the likelihood of developing acne. Exposing the skin to greasy substances, such as oily food or cosmetics, might cause acne. Irritation from excessive face washing, friction from clothing or helmet straps, or pressure from telephones or helmets also might lead to block pores and acne.

Steps To Prevent Breakouts

Washing your face with a mild soap and water is a good way to prevent breakouts.

Proper face-washing can help lessen the frequency and severity of acne breakouts. Avoid irritating skin with intense scrubbing and using facial scrubs and astringents. Instead, use your hands and a gentle soap to remove oil from your face. Over-the-counter products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help dry facial oil. Refrain from using oily cosmetics, sunscreens or hair products that can get onto your face to help lessen the chance of a breakout. Keep objects such as clothing, telephones, your hands or your hair from touching your face to prevent sweat, dirt, and oil from blocking facial pores.

Medical Treatment of Acne

Discussing acne with a dermatologist might help find the best treatment.

For patients with severe acne, proper face-washing and other lifestyle changes have little effect on reducing symptoms. In these cases, meeting with a general care physician or a dermatologist might be helpful. In some cases, these physicians might prescribe medicines that help get rid of acne. There are a variety of treatments, such as over-the-counter topical creams, topical prescriptions, antibiotics, oral contraceptives, isotretinoin (Accutane), or other cosmetic procedures such as laser or light therapy, chemical peels or microdermabrasion. Meeting with a physician or a dermatologist can help patients determine the best way to control their acne breakouts.

References

• MayoClinic.com: Acne
• Acne.org: What Is Acne
• Web MD: Acne
• American Academy of Dermatologists: Acne