Which factors are known to aggravate acne lesions?

• A. Dietary choices
• B. Makeup and mechanical factors
• C. Genetic predisposition
• D. Environmental pollutants

Answer: (B)

Makeup and mechanical factors are known to aggravate acne lesions due to their direct impact on the skin's condition. Certain types of makeup can clog pores, leading to the trapping of sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria within the follicles, increasing the likelihood of inflammation and acne development. Moreover, mechanical factors such as friction from clothing, backpacks, or even constant touching of the face can irritate the skin and exacerbate existing lesions by increasing the risk of irritation and triggering an inflammatory response.

While dietary choices, genetic predisposition, and environmental pollutants may also influence acne, they do so in less direct ways compared to the immediate effects of makeup and mechanical irritants. Foods can influence systemic inflammation or hormone levels, genetics may determine skin type and its predisposition to acne, and pollutants can lead to skin irritation and inflammation; however, the direct mechanical interactions at the surface level, as experienced with makeup and physical contact, tend to have a more pronounced and immediate effect on exacerbating acne lesions.