Most specialists agree that there are two primary causes of acne. The first cause of acne is often derived from a lack of sufficient exfoliation of skin cells. This causes a buildup of skin cells that result in the skin cells blocking the pore openings. This in turn does not allow the sebum (oil) to naturally expel itself from the skin's pores. As the sebum accumulates in the pores at the skin's surface, it hardens into a waxy substance forming a 'plug'. As more sebum works its way towards the surface it accumulates in the pore under the skin’s surface, as it cannot escape around the plugged pore. Several things can occur when this happens. A raised bump might appear. A pimple may form. The sebum might enlarge the pore over time. The pore may become so enlarged that it erupts underneath the skin's surface causing damage. Often, the sebum becomes infected. This is often why people with severe acne are given antibiotics instead of the usual acne medication.

If you think you have oily skin, look at the ingredients in the products you are currently using. If they contain ANY of the following ingredients STOP using them immediately!

• Acetone, Alcohol, Benzalkonium Chloride, Benzol Peroxide, Camphor, Isopropyl Myristate, Lanolin, Lanolin Alcohol, Lanolin Acid, Isopropyl Lanolate, Acetylated Lanolin, Salicylic Acid, SD Alcohol, Zinc Lauryl Sulphate, Ammonium Lauryl Sulphate and Witch Hazel.

NOTE: 30glycolic(R) products for oily skin do not contain these irritants. All products are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic (do not clog pores). 

If your skin care products contain any of these ingredients, they may be a cause of acne, and that’s an acne fact!

Now you know the cause of acne, please browse our acne scar treatments and acne medication sections.