Everyone gets pimples from time to time; however, acne is different than the occasional breakout. It is actually classified as an inflammatory condition of the skin, and it’s chronic. It causes extreme breakouts of pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, and even cysts. This condition can affect any part of the body, but the face, back, shoulder, upper arms, and chest are most commonly affected. That’s because these areas have a high level of sebaceous glands, which are responsible for the production of the oil that causes acne.
Acne is common during puberty because this is the period of time when the sebaceous glands become active; however, it can develop at any age. Though acne is not dangerous, it can be quite embarrassing and have a serious impact on a person’s self-esteem. Furthermore, as the blemishes clear, they can leave permanent scars behind.
What does acne happen? Here’s a look at 12 causes.
1. Genetics
If your mom, dad, aunt, uncle, sister, brother or anyone else in your family has or has had acne, there is a good chance that you will have it, too. Scientific studies have found that acne is much more linked to genetics than environmental conditions. Your genes determine how your immune system will respond to certain bacteria, including the bacteria that can result in blemishes. Genetics also determines how easily your pores can become clogged.
For instance, you may have a genetic predisposition to produce an overabundance of skin cells, and as they die and shed from the surface from your skin, they can clog your pores. However, it should be noted that while your genes can certainly make you more prone to developing this skin condition, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you will; if your mom had it, your sister may have it, but you may not.
