Article by BR Michelle
Acne. We all get it, but what’s the underlying cause of it? Could it be more than just changing hormones during that time of the month? Or what about the dreaded “bacne” that seems to always creep its way onto our skin during the most oh-so-convenient times? If you’re no stranger to getting unwelcomed visitors on your face, back, and everywhere in between, read on to learn a little bit more about what causes it and what you can do to vanish it.
Causes of Acne
Whether you’re a teenager just hitting puberty or you’re more mature and well into your 30s, 40s, and even 50s, acne can hit at any time. Adolescents may notice pesky blemishes due to their rising levels of the hormone androgen. This hormone causes the oil glands in the skin to enlarge, which then causes more oil to grow. When there is an overload of oil, the pore walls break down, making a clear pathway for bacteria (and acne) to grow.
While this is known to be the common cause of acne, there are other possible causes that are worthy of mentioning, such as genetics, harmful chemicals in cosmetics, poor skincare routine, and those filthy makeup brushes you keep putting off washing (hey, we’ve all been there!)
Who Gets Acne?
Feel like you’re alone when it comes to having pesky pimples invade your face? You’re not! While acne is more common in teenagers, it can also hit men and women who are middle-aged and even newborns.
Adult Acne
If you thought your acne days were over once you hit 30, think again. Adult acne is extremely common, and the causes are very similar to the ones previously mentioned: excess amounts of sebum attract bacteria and thus clog pores. When it comes to women, this is quite common during pregnancy and menopause. And while most over-the-counter acne-fighters are geared toward teenage skin, all hope is not lost for adults. Try incorporating a mild cleanser and exfoliator into your daily skincare routine. Also, a retinol product not only help treat acne, but it can minimize the common signs of aging as well. If you simply need to spot-treat a pimple, opt for something that contains benzoyl peroxide, an acne-fighting ingredient that’s known to treat blemishes quickly.
How to Get Rid of Acne
Most of the time, that unsightly pimple, also known as mild acne, will go away on its own. To reduce redness and swelling, try applying a paper towel-covered ice cube on it for a few minutes. You can also test out some over-the-counter medicine that contain salicylic acid or sulfur in it, acne-fighting ingredients that work to minimize blackheads and prevent pores from getting clogged.
Retin-A is another common way to treat acne. With its ability to unclog pores, which could lead to further breakouts if not treated, Retin-A is rich in Tretinoin, an acid that helps treat acne and also prevents skin from aging.
Have dry skin? Steer clear of over-the-counter medicines that are high in alcohol, such as those that are in gel form, as this can further dry out your skin and cause flakiness. On the other hand, if your skin is oily, gels may work for you.
If your skin is no stranger to pimples, blemishes, and breakouts (oh my), then you may have what is known to be severe acne. In this case, going to a dermatologist is your best bet, as they may prescribe you with a medicine, be it oral or topical, that can help get rid of the acne.
How to Avoid Getting Acne
No matter what age you are, it’s important to take preventative measures when it comes to keeping bacteria off of your skin. For one, get into the habit of washing your hands regularly. Think about all of the things you do and touch throughout the day: shake hands, hold doorknobs, touch food. All of the bacteria and germs that are on each of those things then get transmitted onto your skin if you don’t wash your hands, thus creating infection.
Also, be wary about what you put on your face. Get into the habit of reading the ingredient labels of different beauty products and educate yourself on what is doing more harm to your skin than good.
Finally, always make sure you’re hydrated. Skin feeds off of water, and when it’s properly hydrated it’ll thank you!
Whether you’re a teenager or adult, there’s no reason to feel ashamed or embarrassed about having acne. Remember that everyone gets it at some point in their lives, and that educating yourself on the causes and preventative measures you can take is key.
Beauty Review is teaming up with Thursday Plantation to bring 20 members an amazing trial opportunity. We're looking to help 20 acne sufferers by giving them 5 Thursday Plantation products to trial. Our 20 member team will be putting these five Thursday Plantation products to the test:
- Tea Tree Face Wash For Acne
- Tea Tree & Witch Hazel Toner
- Tea Tree Face Cream
- Tea Tree Medicated Gel For Acne
- Tea Tree Blemish Stick
This is a special trial team - it's not only open to members, but also to our member's teens if they have an acne issue - so if you or your teen is sufferering from acne simply comment below and tell us about your acne battle.
The more detail you can give us - the better!
I currently have lots of acne although i didnt have much when i was teenager. Dont know what causes. I really want something that could help because having pimples at this age is so hard to clear the scars, as your skin doesnt restore as fast as before (Im at mid 20s). I have heard about tee tree work well on acne skin but havent tried before, and i would love to try this set.