What is the primary cause of acne?

The primary cause of acne is hormonal changes, particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and in the case of certain hormonal disorders. These fluctuations in hormones can lead to increased sebum production, which is the oily substance produced by sebaceous glands in the skin. When there is an overproduction of sebum, it can combine with dead skin cells and clog hair follicles. This clogged pore becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes), which can contribute to the development of acne lesions.

While P.acnes bacteria, environmental conditions, and dietary factors can certainly influence the severity and occurrence of acne, they are not the primary initiating causes. For example, P.acnes proliferate in the clogged pores created by hormonal changes, rather than being the sole reason for acne. Similarly, while environmental factors such as pollution and irritants can aggravate existing acne, they do not directly cause the hormonal shifts that initiate the acne process. Dietary factors are also considered to have an impact, but they do not serve as the primary driver of acne development. Understanding the role of hormonal changes is crucial for effective acne treatment and management strategies.