Have you ever woken up one morning, looked in the mirror and seen a red, swollen pimple that wasn’t there the night before? If so, you have experienced acne, a common and often frustrating skin condition, acne is more than just a rash, it can affect our well-being and health.
But what exactly causes these unwanted rashes? Why are some people more affected than others and how can we prevent them? We show its causes and give advice for its prevention, get ready to discover how to control your skin and fight acne effectively.
Causes of acne
Acne is a common skin condition that can be caused by a combination of factors, in addition to hormones, bacteria and dead skin cells, other factors such as genetics, diet and stress can play a role in the appearance of acne. .
When the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, an oily substance that helps protect the skin, pores can become clogged and create blackheads or pimples. Hormones also play an important role in causing acne, especially during puberty, menstruation and pregnancy, periods of hormonal changes that can increase sebum production.
Bacteria can also contribute to acne by creating an environment for them to grow in clogged pores, which can make breakouts worse. and different symptoms, so consult a dermatologist to determine the best treatment method. for each person.
The link between diet and acne
The link between diet and acne has been the subject of much research over the years, with results suggesting that what we eat can affect our skin, many studies have shown a relationship between diet high in high glycemic index foods (such as processed foods, sugary drinks, and starchy foods) and an increase in acne.
These foods can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, which can lead to excessive insulin production and an increase in hormones that stimulate sebum production, a key factor in acne, certain dairy products, especially skim milk, have also associated with acne.
Although research is still ongoing to fully understand this link, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains may help prevent or reduce acne due to their low glycemic index and richness in beneficial food. The unique and impact of food on acne can vary from one person to another.
Acne treatments
Acne treatment varies greatly depending on the severity of the condition and individual reaction, for mild to moderate acne, topical treatments such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acids and azelaic can be effective, these products work by exfoliating the skin, reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can cause acne, for more severe or resistant acne, oral medications such as antibiotics, birth control pills, or isotretinoin (a strong drug often used for severe acne, that continues) can be prescribed by a dermatologist.
Certain therapies, such as light therapy or laser therapy, may also be beneficial for some patients, considering that treating acne can be time-consuming and often requires a referral. We recommend that you consult a medical professional to determine the best treatment plan for your particular condition.
acne prevention
Although it is difficult to prevent acne completely, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of breakouts.
Maintain a regular skin care routine. This includes treating the skin twice daily with a gentle cleanser and using a non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain moisture balance.
Avoid touching your face as much as possible, hands can carry bacteria that can clog pores and cause breakouts.
Avoid eating foods high in sugar and fat, as they can increase sebum production and make breakouts worse.
Acne can be an embarrassing skin problem, but there are steps you can take to prevent it, by following a regular skin care routine, avoiding touching your face as much as possible, and avoiding foods rich in sugar and fat. can reduce the risk of breakouts and maintain healthy, glowing skin.