Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Most Common Causes of Skin Blemishes?

Angela Farrer
Angela Farrer

The most common causes of skin blemishes include heredity, hormone fluctuations, dietary habits, and environmental factors. Some types of skin blemishes result from the natural aging process as well. Treating blemishes can be accomplished with several options depending on the exact type of skin problem. Many common issues such as acne can be cleared up with a topical blemish treatment cream, although dermatologists may prescribe an oral medication for some severe cases. Pinpointing an exact cause of skin blemishes can sometimes be a matter of trial and error for a few individuals, so the help of an experienced skin care professional can often lead to effective treatment measures.

Acne is a common skin problem for people of many ages. While it is prevalent among teenagers, this condition can also occur in older adults. These types of skin blemishes can range from small whiteheads to deep and painful cysts that carry the chance of permanent scarring. Acne blemishes can be especially troubling to teenagers concerned about their appearance, but they are usually temporary problems that begin to diminish after a few years in most cases. Excess oil production in the skin pores frequently results from changing levels of estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone during adolescence.

A woman applying cream to her face to remove a blemish.
A woman applying cream to her face to remove a blemish.

Genetic factors can also be responsible for some types of skin blemishes such as psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema. Some medical researchers suggest that sufferers may have an inherited sensitivity to certain bacteria that can lead to the redness, itching, and swelling associated with these conditions. People with a hereditary predisposition to these skin conditions sometimes see worse outbreaks when they are exposed to high levels of environmental toxins as well as ultra violet (UV) rays from the sun. Many treatments involve regular applications of a blemish balm cream along with certain lifestyle changes. While it can be tempting to use a thick blemish concealer, this kind of makeup can sometimes contain oils that will clog skin pores even further.

Genetic factors can be responsible for skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema.
Genetic factors can be responsible for skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema.

Some dermatologists point to diet choices as contributing factors to skin blemishes. Low-grade dehydration is a common issue in many people who do not drink the recommended daily amounts of water. Dehydrated skin is usually more prone to the flaking of dead skin cells that clog pores and lead to blemishes. Foods with large amounts of preservatives can also sometimes aggravate skin problems due to a build-up of these chemicals in the body.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A woman applying cream to her face to remove a blemish.
      A woman applying cream to her face to remove a blemish.
    • Genetic factors can be responsible for skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema.
      By: robert mobley
      Genetic factors can be responsible for skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema.