1. Excess Sebum (Oil) Production
- The skin naturally produces sebum to keep it moisturized, but overproduction can clog pores. This excess oil, combined with dead skin cells, can create an environment that promotes acne formation.
2. Dead Skin Cells
- Normally, dead skin cells are shed from the skin’s surface. When they don’t shed properly, they can combine with sebum, causing blockages that lead to blackheads, whiteheads, and acne.
3. Bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes)
- The bacterium P. acnes thrives in blocked pores. Once trapped inside, it can cause inflammation, leading to pimples or more severe acne.
4. Hormonal Imbalances
- Fluctuations in hormones, particularly androgens, can increase oil production, making the skin more prone to clogging and acne. This is common during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
5. Diet (High Glycemic Foods and Dairy)
- Diets rich in sugars, processed carbs, and dairy have been linked to increased oil production and inflammation. These can exacerbate acne by altering hormone levels or triggering inflammatory responses.
