the
basics
special
types
There are several key components that are involved in acne:
Sebum
(oil) production
Oil production is a necessary part of acne. The oil or
sebum is what drives acne. At the same time, however, being oily or "greasy"
does not necessarily mean that you will have acne. Sebaceous (oil) glands are
found everywhere on the body except the palms and soles but are most numerous
on the face. Oil production can be affected by many factors. Among these factors,
increased temperature, UV radiation, and hormones (see below) can increase sebum
production while certian medications may help to reduce sebum production.
Hormones
The
main hormones that are responsible for acne are the androgens. These androgens
are the "male" type hormone and are found in both men and women. Androgens
have many effects on
the skin and in regards to acne, they are the main driving
force in increasing sebum (oil) production. The primary androgen that causes increased
sebum production is called DHT and
this is formed from testosterone by an
enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme is found
in large quantities
in sebaceous glands. In most people, levels of testosterone are normal. The thought
is that acne there may be increased conversion of testosterone to DHT in acne
prone skin.
Estrogen
in general has no effect on oil prodcution. In addition, the body's own progesterone
does not effect the sebaceous glands. However, certain synthetic progesterones
(like those
found in certain birth control bills) may lead to significant
androgen effects as described above.
Bacteria
The
main bacteria that contributes to acne is know as proprionibacterium acnes
(p. acnes).
This particular bacteria feeds on the oil produced from
the sebaceous glands. In doing so, it
alters the structure of the oil into
a substance that makes it more likley to cause comedones.
In addition, the
bacteria creates numerous toxic substances that contribute to the break-down
of
the pores/follicles as well as attracting inflammation.
Cornification
of the pilosebaceous duct
One of the key components of acne is the fact
that there is increased production of skin cells around the pores. This may be
due to the action of hormones, bacterial products, and certain componetns of sebum.
As a result of this increased production of cells, the is blockage of the pores
contributing to comedones (black heads and white heads).
Inflammation
When
you see pimples and other reddish bumps on the face, you are seeing inflammation.
Inflammation results from a combination of chemicals that are produced in the
body. In regards
to acne, inflammation may be triggers by rupture of a comedone,
as a reaction to substances
that are produced by p. acnes, and other
causes.
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