What causes zits is the question asked by many young people who suffer from zits and not just adolescents - many adults suffer the problem. Normally zits are caused by the bacteria Propionibacterium. This gets trapped in clogged skin pores (or hair follicles) more often on the face but can also be on other parts of the body. The bacteria produces enzymes which it uses to break down the sebum (the oil produced by the body's sebaceous glands) and in this process it blocks / clogs up the skin pore. The enzymes show as inflammation/redness in the affected area and are generally know by young people as zits.

The inflammation shows up as zits and is known as superficial acne. If the inflammation is deeper within the skin and pores resulting in cysts (large red lumps) it is known as cystic acne.

So typical zits are the result of an imbalance in the glandular production of the sebaceous gland that secretes directly onto the skin.

There are many forms of zits which explain why it is so difficult to treat acne. Essentially, zits are a result of blocked skin pores. Zits are not caused by stress, as you may have thought, but are more likely to be attributed to poor diet and lack of exercise and fresh air.

The excess oil / sebum is actually a by-product of testosterone production in the body of adolescent boys going through puberty; in women, the hormonal changes occurring before the menstrual cycle may also cause sporadic outbreaks of zits.

Another cause of zits has been traced to diets and the lack of essential fatty acids. The body needs a specific quantity of essential fatty acids to remain in balance and the everyday Western diet does not provide a sufficient amount for most young people, whereas trans-fats and other nonessential fats are found in large quantities and it is this imbalance in the fat ratio that tips the scale in favor of excess production of sebum, leading to outbreaks of zits.

Certain chemicals & drugs may also be factors in the appearance of zits. Any drug that has added hormones or that changes the hormonal balance of the body is a possible cause.

Overall good health is essential to be zit free and this includes a healthy diet, gentle but effective skin care and decreased exposure to chemicals and drugs which may affect the natural hormone levels of the body.

On the other hand, adult acne may be caused by hormonal imbalances, pollution, medications or stress to name just a few. Studies have shown a direct correlation between hormonal imbalances and outbreaks of zits in women ranging in age from 30 to 40 years.

Other forms of acne zits include:

-Cosmetic Acne - caused by the active ingredients in the cosmetic being used.

-Acne Conglobata - usually due to hereditary factors.

-Acne Detergens - the use of soaps and cleaners that cause an irritating effect to the skin.

-Acne Excoriee - brought about by the constant picking of the zits on the face and body.

-Acne Mallorca - caused by exposure to sunlight.

-Acne Mechanica - caused by materials & fabrics

-Acne Neonatorum affects infants and is transferred by way of hormones from mother to child

-Acne Pomade - caused by the use of oils found in hair care products.

-Acne Fulminans, Acne Keloidalis and Acne Medicametosa are other forms of acne

Zits can generally be prevented / reduced by simple measures: ensure you eat a healthy diet with lots of fruit and vegetables, drink lots of water and/or fruit juices. Ensure your face is cleansed at least twice a day, removing the excess oil and dead skin cells to ensure the skin pores do not become blocked and hence infected. Avoid touching your face as you hands harbor bacteria and transferring it to your face will simply increase the chances for infection.