What’s Inflammation Got To Do With Acne?

What’s inflammation got to do with acne? Absolutely everything.

It’s long been accepted that there were two types of acne lesions: inflammatory (cysts, pustules, papules) and non-inflammatory (blackheads, whiteheads). But recent clinical evidence indicates that inflammation is integral to the formation and early development of all acne lesions. Inflammation is not a symptom of acne. It’s a trigger.

It all starts with systemic inflammation; inflammation at the cellular level which creates oxidative stress in the sebum follicle. Oxidized, or damaged, sebum boosts the proliferation of keratinocytes, dead skin cells. This keratolytic over-abundance is what leads to the clogged pores that allow acne bacteria to thrive.

So, if we can reduce inflammation at the cellular level, we can impede the process that leads to red, swollen, bumpy skin.

What causes the cellular inflammation? Things like stress, poor diet including excess sugar, UV damage, harmful chemicals, and smoking are all contributors.

To reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, pay attention to both internal and external factors.

Never pick at blemishes. Picking creates further inflammation and can lead to scarring and hyperpigmentation. Instead, focus your efforts on reducing stress as much as possible, getting good sleep, limiting UV exposure, and eating an antioxidant-rich diet loaded with leafy greens, nuts, colorful fruits and vegetables, healthy fats like those found in salmon, avocados, and olive oil. Avoid sugar, saturated fat, simple carbs, processed meats, artificial sweeteners, and excess alcohol. Some also find dairy and gluten to be a problem.

Finally, make sure that in addition to targeting bacteria, your skin care products include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients.