Why do some people get worse acne than others?
Researchers are starting to figure out why the main culprit is a type of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes. It feeds on the oily matter in our skin called sebum.
During puberty, we produce more sebum than usual. This allows bacteria to multiply, which can cause infection and acne.
But that’s not the entire story.
There are over 1,000 strains of Propionibacterium acnes. Not all of them are bad, according to a 2013 study. Every person has a unique mix of bacterial strains on their skin.
Acne-prone skin has different strains than healthy skin.
Plus, evidence suggests certain strains may only live in healthy skin.
These strains might protect against acne, instead of causing it. If true, it could offer a new way to identify acne early on, and potentially treat it with acne-fighting bacterial strains.
Researchers are on the hunt to identify more “good” and “bad” strains. Perhaps, one day, acne will be a disease of the past.