While the exact genetic cause of acne has yet to be figured out, both clinical and genetic research show that people with a family history of severe acne are more likely to have severe acne.
Researchers at St. Thomas Hospital in London conducted a large study on the influence of genetics on twins’ acne; 458 pairs of identical female twins and 1099 pairs of fraternal female twins participated.
They discovered that 81% of the difference in acne between twin pairs was attributable to genetics. The remaining 19% was attributed to environmental factors such as diet and climate.
The evidence of a major genetic influence on acne is leading to a search for genes that could help treat acne.
While it is impossible to change the hand you are dealt, it is important to play the hand well by managing the other factors associated with acne, such as diet.