Does Bacteria Cause Acne?

The role of bacteria in the development of acne is often misunderstood. Most think that it is bacteria which initially instigates the formation of lesions. This is why we acne-prone individuals were forced as children to constantly wash our faces. Our parents thought that it would eliminate bacteria and oils, preventing acne. Today, it is apparent that there is no rhyme nor reason to heed such advice.

Bacteria plays an important role in acne blemishes, however, it is not until the hair follicle becomes clogged that the p. acnes bacteria make their debut. Our facial skin contains a large number of pores, which are openings to the hair follicle. The hair follicle acts as a duct through which our body can excrete sebum. The sebum rises to the surface of the skin, allowing it to keep moisture intact.

When sebum can no longer flow freely because of an obstruction, problems start to surface. The skin is typically able to replenish itself by getting rid of dead cells. When the shedding cycle is somehow altered, the dead skin remains on the skin and starts to plug pores. The hair follicle now begins to collect sebum and the acne bacteria become highly active. With plenty of food (sebum) they multiply in tremendous numbers.

The surge of bacterial activity within the pore activates an immune response. This is what causes the inflammation associated with acne. Whiteheads are almost always inflamed, as are other pimples. We are often advised to pick at our lesions, which can quickly aggravate the problem. The bacteria can further penetrate the pore, or worse, spread elsewhere.

Acne treatments, above all, should focus on the primary culprit which is an improper skin turnover cycle. Prescription medications tend to be very good at treating this, such as topical retinoids. Dermatologists usually prescribe topicals for the bacteria and the normalize shedding. When the acne is unresponsive, medications that control sebum production are brought in. Overall, prescription products tend to be much more effective than store bought ones. If over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide does not suffice for your case of acne, you should visit a dermatologist.

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