In What Causes Acne? Part 1, we discussed the internal causes for acne. There are also many external causes. In this article, we’ll take a look at external causes that people may not be aware of:

External Causes for Acne:

• Use of anabolic steroids – Anabolic steroids stimulate the production of sebum in the skin, creating the perfect environment for a variety of bacteria which cause acne or even more serious infections, such as Staph.


• Any medication containing lithium, barbiturates or androgens – these drugs are known to aggravate acne.
• Exposure to certain chemical compounds. Chloracne is particularly linked to toxic exposure to dioxins, namely Chlorinated dioxins.
• Exposure to halogens. Halogen acne is linked to exposure to halogens (e.g. iodides, chlorides, bromides, fluorides).
• Chronic use of amphetamines or other similar drugs.

Development of acne vulgaris in later years is uncommon, although this is the age group for Rosacea which may have similar appearances. True acne vulgaris in adult women may be a feature of an underlying condition such as pregnancy and disorders such as polycystic ovarian syndrome or the rare Cushing’s syndrome.

Menopause-associated acne occurs as production of the natural anti-acne ovarian hormone estradiol fails at menopause. The lack of estradiol also causes thinning hair, hot flashes, thin skin, wrinkles, vaginal dryness, and predisposes to osteopenia and osteoporosis as well as triggering acne (known as acne climacterica in this situation).

Hygiene

For years, there has been a misconception that acne is caused by dirt. Acne is not caused by dirt. This misconception probably comes from the fact that blackheads look like dirt stuck in the openings of pores. The black color is not dirt but simply oxidised keratin. In fact, the blockages of keratin that cause acne occur deep within the narrow follicle channel, where it is impossible to wash them away. These plugs are formed by the failure of the cells lining the duct to separate and flow to the surface in the sebum created there by the body. Built-up oil of the skin can block the passages of these pores, so standard washing of the face could wash off old oil and help unblock the pores.

That said, heavy or greasy makeup can definitely contribute to acne, as it blocks pores. If you use this kind of makeup, always wash it off thoroughly. Natural, non-clogging mineral makeup is a much better choice for acne-prone skin.

If you missed Part 1, here’s where you can read What Causes Acne? Part 1. Part 1 discusses the internal factors linked to acne.