Health Tip: What Could Be Causing Your Acne?
Acne results when the skin's oil glands make too much of an oily substance called sebum. This can plug pores, triggering bacterial growth and skin lesions that we commonly call pimples.
Among women, a variety of factors can prompt an outbreak of acne. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers this list of possible triggers:
- Hormonal changes during puberty, or during the menstrual cycle.
- Changes in hormone levels caused by starting or stopping the birth control pill, or menopause.
- Some medications, including those that treat epilepsy and depression.
- Wearing makeup.
- Pressure or rubbing against the skin, such as from a hat or helmet.
- A family history of acne.
If you have acne, it's important to gently clean the skin, particularly on the face.
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases offers these suggestions:
- Wash your face regularly -- in the morning when you wake up, before you go to bed and always after you've exercised or sweated heavily.
- Be sure to wash your entire face -- including past the jaw and all the way up to the hairline.
- Use only a mild face wash. Ask your dermatologist or doctor what is best for your skin.
- Avoid using a harsh soap or astringent on your face, and don't scrub the skin.
- Wash your hair frequently. If you have oily hair, you may want to wash it daily.
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