Is There A Connection Between Acne And Hormones?

October 18th, 2008 · No Comments · acne

Acne and its development is said to have a close connection with changes in hormones. High levels of the androgen and testosterone hormones present in the body have been found in people suffering from acne and who often have oily ski. With this finding, many experts have noted that the balance of androgen and estrogen is then required to maintain healthy skin, a sort of Yin and Yang phenomenon. Acne tends to develop when hormonal imbalances occur.

The belief that there is a connection between acne and hormones holds that acne often starts around the age of 19 to 24, thus it can start with teens but also affect mature adults. At this stage, people will typically get lesions on the lower face, primarily in the chin as well as jaw line. It may also appear on the chest and back, although a majority of its victims are affected mainly on the face.

The acne and hormones connection further holds the idea that acne typically starts to appear when the body starts to produce androgen hormones. It is basically the androgens that incite the sebaceous glands to enlarge and emit sebum. Sebum builds up in the follicle and then gets pushed up the hair shaft until it reaches the exterior of the skin. As this movement occurs, the sebum then blends with bacteria which cause the hair follicle blockade. It is merely the blocked follicles which become the breeding area for bacteria, resulting in acne.

It is worth noting that hormones basically regulate every function of the body. As you may know, sleep, growth and other related body functions largely depend upon your hormones. Acne may be a byproduct of hormonal imbalance due to this dependency.With hormonal balance there is less chance for acne to emerge.

The connection between acne and hormones also explains the occurrence of acne in teens as well as in adults. In teens, it is commonly noted that during the onset of puberty, androgen is produced which holds a major role in the development of acne. The acne and hormones connection is most noticed in mature women during their menstrual cycle. It has been noted in certain studies that acne that worsens during a woman’s monthly cycle is not something that women will grow out of as they get older.

A good acne treatment should be effective at every stage of life.