Can acne be passed on from parents to their children?

Acne, a common skin condition that affects millions worldwide, is often considered a rite of passage for adolescents. However, for some people, acne extends beyond individual experiences and becomes a shared familial concern. Known as familial or hereditary acne, this skin concern affects multiple members in a single family.

Dr Rashmi Shetty, a dermatologist, recently shed light on identifying familial acne through a few key indicators. In an Instagram post, she urged individuals to inspect their parent’s skin for old scars or active acne. “If not, then look at your siblings and parent’s siblings as well,” advised Dr Shetty.

So, what exactly is familial acne?

While there’s no scientific term for familial acne, Dr Seema Oberoi Lall, consultant, dermatology at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, explains that a person may be more susceptible to acne if their parents also experience it. “Some people may have a tendency to have oilier or acne-prone skin that could be inherited from their parents,” she noted.

Identifying familial acne often involves exploring family history. “If it is genetic, acne may start early on in life as soon as puberty sets in, and such people can experience stubborn acne requiring specialised professional dermatology care for treatment,” explained Dr Lall.

A 2019 study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that specific genetic variations can increase the likelihood of acne development within families. However, these genetic factors merely set the stage, with environmental and lifestyle elements stepping into the spotlight.

Environmental factors such as exposure to pollutants, humidity, and dietary choices can amplify the genetic predisposition to acne. “A diet high in refined carbohydrates, sugary and fried foods can trigger acne flare-ups in susceptible individuals,” Dr Lall said.

Additionally, skincare habits can inadvertently exacerbate acne concerns. “For those with oily skin, caution is advised against using greasy products, oiling hair, and using oil-based makeup, creams, face washes, massages, and facials,” warned Dr Lall.

 

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Here are some strategies to manage familial acne:

*Education and awareness: Understanding the genetic and environmental factors at play is crucial for families dealing with acne. Knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their skincare routines and lifestyle choices.

*Healthy lifestyle choices: Encouraging a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can positively impact the entire family’s skin health.

*Individualised skincare regimens: Recognising that each family member may have different skin types and needs, tailoring skincare regimens to individual preferences can help manage acne effectively.

*Product hygiene: Emphasising the importance of personal hygiene and discouraging the sharing of skincare products can minimise the risk of bacterial transmission within the family.

*Seeking professional guidance: In cases where familial acne persists despite lifestyle modifications, seeking advice from dermatologists can provide personalised treatment plans and skincare routines for each family member.

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