Acne is caused by overactive oil gland in the skin which combined with dead skin cells, bacteria and the pollutants the skin is exposed to in modern day living, can lead to inflamed sebaceous glands that cause very visible protrusions on the skin.

Sebaceous glands are responsible for the oily substance known as sebum that is excreted onto the surface of the skin through the pore.

The explanation behind the over-production of oil is linked to the lipids and fatty acid deposits underneath the skin. If these are not broken down effectively and redistributed into the blood stream, they are released as sebum or oil.

Oily Skin

The enzyme required by the body to break down fatty acids is Coenzyme A, which also in needed for vital hormone production.

Naturally oily skin, while not necessarily is a bad thing – it is extremely effective in keeping moisture locked into the skin – can exacerbate the appearance of acne since pores clog easier and faster.

Reducing excess skin oil is one of the main ways to address the likelihood of acne appearing.

The main causes of the over-production of oil are:

• Genetics – Oily skin can be hereditary
• Overuse of skin care products – Excessive cleansing, exfoliating and manipulation of the skin can trigger excessive amounts of oil being produced as the skin reacts to the constant removal of naturally occurring oils that nourish.
• Seasonal changes – The way the skin functions changes throughout the year in conjunction with the weather. High humidity can cause increased oil production, while drier weather can lead to dehydration which can also lead to the production of more oil. Exposure to air conditioning can also have the same effect on the skin’s oil levels.
• Medication – Hormone replacement medicines as well as birth control methods can lead to increased oil production.
• Fluctuating hormones – For women, the ever-changing levels of hormones in the body can cause sebaceous glands to produce more oil. During pregnancy, menstruation and menopause in particular.

At Cosmetic Doctor the underlying cause of your oily skin can be assessed and a treatment plan developed that is designed to work for your specific issue.

As it is a doctor-led clinic you can have prescriptions written if you need to take medication to address the root cause of your oil-overproduction, or if you need hormone related advice.

Call Cosmetic Doctor on 01 685 3100 or visit our Acne Treatments page.