What causes the sebaceous glands to overproduce, resulting in acne?
According to Randall Neustaedter, OMD, the androgenic hormones, particularly testosterone, that increase at puberty, and the surge of premenstrual hormones, trigger increased production of sebum. The pores become clogged with both sebum and dead skin cells creating a prime breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria and the breakdown products of sebum cause irritation and inflammation in the pores. The result is acne blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, and cysts in the skin. Karen Jessett, author of Clear Skin, says that food is also a factor. She states there is recent research pointing the finger at diet eating refined carbohydrates and sugar leads to a surge in insulin and an insulin-like growth factor called IGF-1. This in turn leads to an excess of male hormones, which encourage the skin to excrete large amounts of sebum. This grease-like substance encourages the growth of bacteria responsible for acne. Then there’s the issue of hygiene. Generally speaking, acne is not caused by po
