How to prevent acne? - Dermclass by La Roche-Posay

The skin’s surface is covered with pores that connect to sebaceous glands beneath the skin. The glands produce an oily and sticky liquid called sebum, which contributes to keeping skin healthy when produced in normal quantities. However, when sebaceous glands secrete excess sebum, they cause dead skin cells, which normally exit the pore of the hair follicle, to stick together. The accumulation of dead skin cell debris and oily sebum blocks the pore of the hair follicle, thus forming a microcomedone which we commonly refer to as a pimple.

There are different risk factors that can lead to acne such as genetic predisposition, stress, environment. Acne is also commonly know to be triggered by hormonal fluctuations in the body. Certain hormones also known as androgens are excreted in the body and stimulate the sebaceous gland to secrete sebum.

One theory that remains unclear is that diet influences hormonal changes and ultimately cause acne. To date, diet or food consumption is a theoretical factor which is still a debate amongst the medical community. Some studies link high glycemic index diets or diets high in sugar or carbohydrates to acne, but research is not conclusive. While studies have not been able to show the direct correlation between nutrition and acne, all factors including food need to be considered when getting a medical diagnosis. In order to increase the chances of acne prevention, we recommend that you follow an optimal daily skin routine and visit doctor for more severe cases.