20 Mar Studies Find Strong Genetic Link with Acne
There are a lot of myths when it comes to acne, from the idea that eating chocolate causes acne (not true) to not washing your face diligently causes it (only somewhat true). RefinedMD specializes in treating a variety of skin ailments, and acne is the most common. Most people have experienced some form of acne in their lifetime, particularly during puberty. Hormones are one factor that can cause or exacerbate acne, but genetics also plays a big role. In one issue of the Illumin review journal, researcher Yuechan Chen showcased how genetics plays a role in the development of acne in 81 percent of cases.
Chen describes acne as needing a “long, persistent battle … with professional medication help.” Although he also points out that there are some lifestyle factors, lifestyle only contributes to acne 19 percent of the time. “Some people are just born with acne-prone skin, which means acne is genetic,” Chen says. Skin is the largest organ of the body, and the largest inflammatory system. It’s the organ that first battles bacteria or virus. Acne is a well-researched problem, and Chen references a study of 468 pairs of identical twins along with 1,099 pairs of fraternal twins. In this relatively large study, it showed that 81 percent of acne factors were due to genetics instead of diet, stress levels, or environment.
Oil Change?
Sebum, the natural oils on the face that can clog pores and cause the most common type of acne, had identical exertion rates in identical twins. Identical twins also experienced the same levels of acne severity. Fraternal twins also showed the same exertion rate of sebum, but varying acne severity. The researchers concluded the sebum rate is determined by genetics, but acne severity is not.
In a different study referenced by Chen, 204 patients with acne and 144 without participated and shared the acne history of first- and second-degree relatives. The researchers analyzed the data and discovered that a person with a first-degree relative with acne is four times more likely to have acne compared to those who don’t.
Fortunately, there are many methods to fight and control acne depending on acne type and severity. “Next time you get acne, don’t blame yourself,” Chen says. “After all, most (acne) is rooted in our genes.”
Why Popping Acne is Dangerous
It can be very tempting to pop a whitehead or squeeze out a blackhead yourself, but there is a reason to avoid doing it. Why is this habit so discouraged, and what can happen if a person takes acne into their own hand?
Whiteheads are a “closed comedone.” They are a type of pimple that sits on the skin’s surface. The white material is made up of sebum (dead skin cells) and a type of bacteria. When a whitehead is popped, the flood of excess skin cells and bacteria spreads to nearby areas. This can increase the occurrence of additional whiteheads. However, if extracted by a professional, the sebum and bacteria are controlled and immediately removed.
Acne isn’t so Black and White
Blackheads are clogged pores comprised of the same bacteria in whiteheads along with makeup, dirt, or other debris. Although a clogged hair follicle means it is below the skin’s surface, it can be just as unappealing. Squeezing a blackhead not only spreads the bacteria and other materials, but it is easy to damage (even puncture) the skin with your fingernails in the process.
Non-professional squeezing and popping can require real effort. It is very possible to create a micro-tear in the skin that may not be noticeable to the naked eye. However, this opening can allow bacteria to enter deeper into the skin and even into the bloodstream. Suddenly, a minor whitehead or blackhead can become a serious acne outbreak or even a life-threatening infection.
The best way to treat acne is with ongoing treatments coupled with professional extractions when needed. With various types and causes of acne, every acne treatment plan is unique. It is likely that a person’s regimen will change over the years as their skin and hormones change. For those who can’t help but pick and squeeze, scheduling routine in-office skin care can be a great incentive. Contact RefinedMD to schedule your acne treatment and prevention appointment by calling the office or filling out the online form.