Unveiling the Six Root Causes of Acne (and Their Solutions)

I became an esthetician because there was a time in my life when I struggled with acne AND hyperpigmentation.  It was one of the hardest parts of my life.  But, because of that, I can relate to the feeling of frustration that nothing is working and the lack of confidence to walk around without feeling the need to cover up with makeup.  I totally get it, I've been in your shoes and understand what that looks and feels like.  I too was a client!

I say this to say, acne sucks!  And I'm going to share with you some tips that can help combat this oh so annoying skin concern.

While acne is a common skin woe that most people have experienced a time or two in their lives, what most don't know is that:

1. Acne is multi-factorial - there can be multiple reasons why your acne is surfacing.
2. It often has deeper roots that begin from the inside out.

When you understand the underlying causes and adopt targeted solutions, you can pave the way to clearer, healthier skin.  So, today I will be sharing with you six core root causes of acne, plus provide you with solutions.

1 | Chronic Inflammation:

Prolonged inflammation can trigger acne by affecting skin cells.  Inflammation often begins when the immune system reacts in response to perceived threats.  Let's say you have a poor diet, the body may recognize certain foods as harmful, triggering a response from your immune system.  As a result, your immune system activates and releases inflammatory molecules, which can contribute to a chronic inflammatory state if the triggering factors persist.

Inflammation can begin both internally and externally, and the two are often interconnected.

Internal triggers of inflammation: 

1. Consuming pro-inflammatory foods like highly processed items, sugar, and saturated fats.
2. Lifestyle choices such as sedentary lifestyles, lack of exercise, and poor sleep quality.
3. Emotional or physical stress triggers the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol. Chronic stress can lead to sustained elevation of these hormones, fostering inflammation.
4. Certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or chronic infections, can promote internal inflammation.

External triggers of inflammation:

1. Exposure to pollutants, chemicals, or allergens in the environment can initiate inflammatory responses.
2. Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can induce inflammation as part of the body's defense mechanism.

Solution: Opt for an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Manage stress through practices like meditation.  Incorporate regular exercise.

2 | Nutrient Deficiencies:

Essential nutrient shortages affect skin health.  Nutrient deficiencies occur when the body lacks essential vitamins, minerals, and other vital elements necessary for overall health. In the context of acne, certain nutrients play a crucial role in supporting skin function and preventing breakouts.

When the body lacks these key nutrients, several processes related to skin health may be compromised. For instance, zinc deficiency can impair the immune system's ability to combat acne-causing bacteria.

Key nutrients for healthy skin:

1. Vitamin A: Essential for skin cell turnover and preventing the clogging of pores. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and inflammation.
3. Zinc: Supports immune function and wound healing, important for maintaining healthy skin.

Common causes of nutrient deficiencies:

1. Poor Diet: Diets high in processed foods and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may lack essential nutrients.
2. Digestive Disorders: Conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease can impair nutrient absorption.
3. Vegetarian or Vegan Diets: While these diets can be healthy, individuals need to ensure they get adequate levels of certain nutrients like B12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids from plant-based sources or supplements.

Solution: Maintain a balanced diet with ample vitamins A, E, and zinc. Consider supplements under professional guidance.

3 | Gut Dysbiosis:

Gut dysbiosis?!  This is simply a fancy word for an imbalance in gut bacteria.  The gut and skin are intricately connected through a communication network known as the gut-skin axis. Changes in your gut health can influence immune responses, inflammation, and nutrient absorption, all of which play vital roles in skin health.

Imbalances in the gut microbiota can lead to increased systemic inflammation or lead to nutrient deficiencies associated with skin issues.

Causes of gut dysbiosis:

1. Antibiotic Use: Prolonged or frequent use of antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria.
2. Poor Diet: Diets high in processed foods and low in fiber can negatively impact the gut microbiome.
3. Stress: Chronic stress can affect gut health by influencing the composition of the gut microbiota.

Solution: Boost gut health with probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber-rich foods.

1. Probiotics and Prebiotics: Incorporate probiotic-rich foods (like yogurt and kefir) and prebiotic-rich foods (like garlic and onions) to promote a healthy gut microbiome.
2. Fiber-Rich Diet: Consume a variety of fiber-rich foods, as fiber supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
3. Limiting Antibiotic Use: Use antibiotics judiciously, and when prescribed, consider probiotic supplementation to mitigate potential disruptions to the gut microbiota.
4. Stress Management: Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to support overall gut health.

By nurturing a balanced gut microbiome, individuals can positively influence their skin health and potentially reduce the occurrence of acne associated with gut dysbiosis.

4 | Blood Sugar Imbalance:

Fluctuating blood sugar levels can stimulate acne.  Blood sugar, or glucose, is a key source of energy for the body. When blood sugar levels become imbalanced, it can have cascading effects on various processes, including those related to skin health.

Connection between blood sugar and acne:

1. Insulin Resistance: High levels of refined carbohydrates can lead to insulin resistance, where cells become less responsive to insulin. This triggers increased insulin production, promoting the secretion of androgens, which can stimulate oil production and contribute to acne.
2. Inflammation: Elevated blood sugar levels are associated with increased inflammation, a factor linked to various skin conditions, including acne.
3. Glycation: Excess sugar in the bloodstream can bind to proteins, forming harmful molecules known as advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These AGEs contribute to skin aging and may exacerbate skin conditions like acne.

Causes of blood sugar imbalance look like diets high in refined carbohydrates and sugars can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, sedentary lifestyles, or genetic predisposition to insulin resistance.

So how do we fix this?

Solution: Opt for low-glycemic foods, regulate carbohydrate intake, and maintain a balanced diet.

5 | Stress:

Chronic stress leads to hormonal imbalances affecting the skin.  Yup, it's true!

Stress, whether physical or emotional, can profoundly impact various bodily functions, including those related to skin health. The mind-skin connection is a complex interplay of hormones, neurotransmitters, and immune responses that can influence the development and exacerbation of acne.

How does stress contribute to acne?:

1. Hormonal Changes: Stress triggers the release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can increase oil production and lead to clogged pores.
2. Inflammation: Chronic stress contributes to systemic inflammation, a key factor in many skin conditions, including acne.
3. Impaired Skin Barrier Function: Stress can compromise the skin's natural barrier (the outermost layer of skin), making it more susceptible to external irritants and infections.

Managing stress is such a hot topic for us all, so it's a top priority that I share some in-depth solutions to managing it.

Solution: Practice stress-reduction activities like meditation and prioritize sufficient sleep.

1. Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, to manage stress levels.
2. Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
3. Adequate Sleep: Prioritize sufficient and quality sleep to support skin repair and regeneration.
4. Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress, such as engaging in hobbies or seeking support from friends and family.

Professional Support: In cases of chronic stress or mental health concerns, seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist can be beneficial.

6 | Harsh Skincare:

Aggressive skincare routines may harm the skin's natural barrier.  Skincare is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, BUT using overly harsh or aggressive products can disrupt the skin's natural balance, leading to a range of issues, including acne.

Harsh skincare affects the skin because it can strip the skin of its natural oils leading to dryness, compromise the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to irritants and infections, and trigger inflammation, exacerbating existing acne or causing new breakouts.

Common harsh skincare practices:

1. Over-Exfoliation: Excessive exfoliation can irritate the skin, leading to redness and inflammation.  I recommend 1-2 times a week, if you have sensitive skin drop that down to once a week.
2. Abrasive Ingredients: Products containing harsh chemicals or abrasive particles can damage the skin barrier.
3. Frequent Washing: Overwashing the face can strip away protective oils, disrupting the skin's balance.  Cleansing morning and night is sufficient.  If you wear makeup you can incorporate cleansing oils that are gentle and effective at removing makeup without stripping the skin.   

Solution: Use gentle, non-comedogenic products. Avoid overwashing and incorporate moisturizers.

1. Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, non-drying cleanser to clean the skin without stripping away essential oils.
2. Moisturize: Even acne-prone skin needs hydration. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
3. Sun Protection: Use sunscreen to protect the skin from UV damage. Opt for formulations suitable for acne-prone skin.

Wrap Up

The strategy for tackling acne is multi-faceted and incorporating these solutions into your routine can contribute to improved skin health.  It's also essential to recognize that everyone's skin is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. Pay attention to your skin's response to products, food, stress, even your sleep pattern and adjust your routine accordingly.  Additionally, seek guidance so you aren't throwing spaghetti at the wall trying to figure things out on your own.

 xo, Frankie