Synopsis Of Acne Causes & Effect On Acne Sufferers

Acne causes and effect are painful and embarrassing for most people. Acne has both a physical and a psychological effect. The physical aspect is the formation of the pimple and the scar that it leaves behind. The psychological aspect is the mental anguish that a person suffering from acne undergoes.

Almost everyone has suffered from pimples sometime in their lives. It usually affects persons in the age-group of 12 to 30 years. At times even persons above the age of 30 suffer from acne. Acne is usually seen in the form of whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules or cysts. Most people suffer from acne on the face, chest or back.

Pimples are formed when the dead skin cells and the hair follicles clog the pores of the skin. Subsequently the sebum, which keeps the human skin hydrated, cannot travel to the surface of the skin. This causes the sebum to accumulate beneath the skin thus resulting in the formation of a pimple. The accumulation of sebum provides an ideal condition for the bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) that live on the human skin to thrive. This causes the white bloods to respond by attacking the bacteria resulting in an inflammation in the region.

Acne Causes And Effect On Its Sufferers

The exact reason for the occurrence of acne is still not known. There are many hypotheses as to what causes pimples. One such theory is that the genes of the person determine whether he/she is susceptible to acne or not. Another theory is that during adolescence, the increased levels of hormones (androgens) cause pimples. At times the use of medicines that contain steroids may also cause acne.

The occurrence of pimples may increase during circumstances such as:

• Hormonal fluctuation during the menstrual cycle
• Stressful situations
• On using oily skin products
• On exposure to environmental factors like pollution and humidity
• Contrary to popular belief, acne is not caused by dirt or due to eating chocolate, spicy or oily food.

The tangible effect of acne is the scar left over by it. When a pimple subsides, the skin in that area repairs itself. However, sometimes it is unable to restore itself completely. Consequently a scar is left behind. These scars can be treated through medication or surgery.

The intangible or psychological effects of acne are more distressing. Acne sufferers frequently have low self-confidence. They don't like the way they look and withdraw from the society. They find it difficult to form new relationships. They may suffer from depression and in extreme cases may even develop suicidal tendencies. The family of the acne sufferer should understand the insecurity that acne causes and effect that it has on the afflicted. They should make the sufferer feel loved and accepted.