Skin is the largest organ of the body. It is a complex organ that replaces itself (the top layer of skin is replaced about once a month), and moisturizes itself (through the production of a natural oil called sebum). Of its various functions, the most fundamental are its roles in helping in the body’s toxin-elimination process while simultaneously protecting from pathogens and serving as an overall first barrier. Though there is no single cause of acne, factors can come together to create a skin environment that is conducive to the occurrence of an outbreak. Pores contain sebaceous glands, which are responsible for the production of sebum to coat the skin and hair. Skin that is oilier than average is often more prone to acne. Also, the chances of developing acne can be increased by hormonal changes. A significant example of how hormones can contribute to acne development is to look at what happens to the body during puberty. A process that coincides with puberty is a surge in the release of androgen hormones. These male hormones, present in both maturing males and females, stimulate the sebaceous glands and cause them to increase the production of oily, waxy sebum. This is why puberty is commonly the phase of life when acne first occurs. The inside of a sebaceous gland is the perfect kind of environment for the growth of a type of skin bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (or P. acnes). Under normal circumstances, P. acne bacteria do not have ample opportunity to multiply and cause inflammation due to the constant action of sebum being propelled towards the skin’s surface. The steady generation of new sebum and its consistent movement generally serves to flush away the threat of P. acne multiplication. With skin cells constantly replacing themselves, it can be seen that dead cells are always present on the top layer of our skin. Washing usually sloughs away dead cells however, with 40,000 skin cells being shed from the body every minute, it is normal that many will remain stuck to the skin’s surface even after washing. Some of these displaced cells can become trapped within the skin’s pores. If, in the process of creating sebum and pushing it to the skin’s surface, there is a barrier that gets in the way of the oil reaching the surface (as can happen with dead skin cells or cosmetic residue), the process will slow down for long enough to allow P. acne bacteria to thrive. As the bacteria replicates itself, its bacterial antigens will induce inflammation in the area around that particular pore. This inflammation and the resulting irritation is why acne lesions are often swollen and red. With the exception of the palms of our hands and the soles of our feet, sebaceous glands are located everywhere on the body. It must be noted though that the areas where they are most highly concentrated are the face, the neck, the shoulders and upper back, and the chest. It is because these areas of the body have the highest concentration of sebaceous glands that they are the areas most associated with acne outbreaks. What we can do to help ensure its health is eat well and drink plenty of water so that the body has adequate nutrients and is not dehydrated. The skin environment is both complex and delicate. We should also be kind to our skin. Skin should of course be cleaned regularly – that is a normal component of personal hygiene. But excessive scrubbing and harsh cleansers does not help the health of our skin. A routine of gentle, regular cleansing and moisturizing will do a lot to help keep the skin in optimal condition. Also, avoid touching (let alone squeezing) acne lesions. Acne outbreaks can be frustrating, but do understand that the skin is helped best by allowing it to heal. For skin that is prone to severe acne, consulting a qualified dermatologist for treatment options is an effective way of achieving the goal of clear skin. There are also natural treatment options available to help skin clear itself and maintain its health. Information is your best tool in helping your skin, research and find out what is best for you and your lifestyle.

Image credit: angel_shark

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