What increases my risk for acne?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz answered:Beyond hormonal changes and the connection to some medications, there are other factors that could contribute to the development of acne. Directly applying oily substances, such as some cosmetics, can lead to acne. Further, heredity can also play a role in who gets acne and who doesn't.Beyond hormonal changes and the connection to some medications, there are other factors that could contribute to the development of acne. Directly applying oily substances, such as some cosmetics, can lead to acne. Further, heredity can also... More -
Any changes in hormone levels increase the risk for acne, which is why acne is most common among teenagers going through puberty. Other things that affect hormone levels, including pregnancy and steroid use, often increase the risk for acne, too. Using certain cosmetics may clog pores and increase the chances of developing acne. But, contrary to popular myths, greasy foods don't increase the risk for acne.
Any changes in hormone levels increase the risk for acne, which is why acne is most common among teenagers going through puberty. Other things that affect hormone levels, including pregnancy and steroid use, often increase the risk for acne, too.... More -
Healthwise answered:The tendency to develop acne runs in families. You are more likely to develop severe acne if your parents had severe acne.
The risk of developing acne is highest during the teen and young adult years. These are the years when hormones such as testosterone are increasing. Women who are at the age of menstruation also are more likely to develop acne. Many women have acne flare-ups in the days just before their menstrual periods.
Acne can be irritated or made worse by:
- Wearing straps or other tight-fitting items that rub against the skin (such as a football player wearing shoulder pads), as well as using equipment that rubs against the body (such as a violin held between the cheek and shoulder). Helmets, bra straps, headbands and turtleneck sweaters also may cause acne to get worse.
- Using skin and hair care products that contain irritating substances.
- Washing the face too often or scrubbing the face too hard. Using harsh soaps or very hot water can also cause acne to get worse.
- Experiencing a lot of stress.
- Touching the face a lot.
- Sweating a lot.
- Having hair hanging in the face, which can cause the skin to be oilier.
- Taking certain medicines, such as corticosteroids, some barbiturates, or lithium.
- Working with oils and harsh chemicals on a regular basis.
Athletes or bodybuilders who take anabolic steroids are also at risk for getting acne.
The tendency to develop acne runs in families. You are more likely to develop severe acne if your parents had severe acne. The risk of developing acne is highest during the teen and young adult years. These are the years when hormones such as... More -
Hormonal activity, such as menstrual cycles and puberty.
Stress.
Overproduction of sebum (oil).
Accumulation of dead skin cells.
Buildup of bacteria in the pores.
Skin irritation or scratching of any sort will activate inflammation. Friction or pressure on the skin caused by items such as telephones or cell phones, helmets, tight collars and backpacks.
Certain medications including anabolic steroids (sometimes used illegally by athletes to "bulk up"), some anti-seizure medications, the anti-tuberculosis drugs isoniazid and rifampin, lithium and iodine-containing medications.
Exposure to high levels of chlorine compounds, particularly chlorinated dioxins, may cause severe, long-lasting acne, known as chloracne.
You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Hormonal activity, such as menstrual cycles and puberty. Stress. Overproduction of sebum (oil). Accumulation of dead skin cells. Buildup of bacteria in the pores. Skin irritation or scratching of any sort will activate inflammation. Friction or... More
