Struggling with acne can feel like an endless battle, and figuring out the cause might seem impossible. But don’t stress! Acne doesn’t happen randomly—there’s usually a reason (or several) behind those flare-ups. Once you pinpoint what’s causing the issue, you’ll be one step closer to clear skin. Let’s dive into 16 reasons why acne keeps showing up and what you can do to stop it.
1. Not Washing Your Face Properly
At the end of the day, your skin is covered in dirt, oil, sweat, and makeup. If you’re not washing your face thoroughly, all those impurities can clog your pores, leading to breakouts. Use a gentle cleanser to remove everything and avoid harsh soaps that can irritate your skin. And remember, washing doesn’t mean scrubbing—be kind to your face!
2. Overwashing or Scrubbing Too Hard
It’s tempting to think that scrubbing your skin raw will get rid of acne, but it’s actually making things worse. Overwashing or scrubbing strips your skin of its natural oils, forcing it to produce even more oil to compensate. This extra oil can clog pores and cause breakouts. Stick to cleansing twice a day and avoid gritty exfoliators that can damage your skin barrier.
3. Touching Your Face Constantly
Your hands come into contact with bacteria, oils, and grime all day long. When you touch your face—even just to rest your chin on your hand—you’re transferring all that junk onto your skin. This can clog your pores and create the perfect environment for acne to thrive. Break the habit by being mindful of your movements, especially when you’re at your desk or scrolling on your phone.
4. Not Changing Your Pillowcases Often
Think about it: you sleep on your pillow every night, and over time, it collects oil, sweat, dead skin cells, and even bacteria. If you’re not changing your pillowcases weekly (or even more often if you have oily skin), you’re reintroducing all that grime back onto your face. Keep a stash of clean pillowcases and swap them out frequently for clearer skin.
5. Using the Wrong Skincare Products
Not all skincare products are created equal, and using the wrong ones for your skin type can spell disaster. Heavy creams, overly fragranced products, or anything not labeled as non-comedogenic can clog pores and trigger breakouts. Always check the labels and look for gentle, oil-free options tailored to your skin’s needs. If you’re not sure what works for you, start simple and build your routine.
6. Hormonal Changes
Hormones play a huge role in acne. During puberty, your body produces more androgens, which increase oil production. Even as an adult, hormonal fluctuations from menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can lead to breakouts. Stress, which triggers cortisol production, can also mess with your hormones. While you can’t control every hormonal shift, managing stress and following a consistent skincare routine can help minimize its effects.
7. Diet High in Sugar and Dairy
What you eat shows up on your skin. Diets heavy in sugar and dairy have been linked to acne because they can increase inflammation and trigger excess oil production. Sugary snacks and high-glycemic foods like white bread can cause blood sugar spikes, which may lead to breakouts. Try incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet and see if your skin improves.
8. Not Drinking Enough Water
Dehydration can wreak havoc on your skin. When your skin is dry, your oil glands can go into overdrive to compensate, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Drinking enough water keeps your skin hydrated and helps flush out toxins. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day, and your skin will thank you.
9. Stress Levels Through the Roof
Stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it shows up on your skin too. When you’re stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which can increase oil production and inflammation, leading to acne. High stress also weakens your skin’s ability to heal itself, so breakouts stick around longer. Combat stress with activities like yoga, meditation, or even just a daily walk.
10. Your Hair Products Are the Culprit
Ever notice breakouts along your hairline or forehead? Your hair products could be to blame. Shampoos, conditioners, and styling products with heavy oils or silicones can clog pores, especially if they drip onto your face. Look for non-comedogenic and lightweight formulas, and try to keep your hair away from your face.
11. Sweat and Not Showering After Workouts
Sweat is great for detoxifying your skin, but if it sits too long, it can trap bacteria and dirt, leading to clogged pores. If you’re skipping a shower after workouts or not cleansing your face immediately, you’re inviting acne to pop up. Keep cleansing wipes handy for a quick refresh if you can’t shower right away.
12. Your Makeup Habits
Wearing heavy, pore-clogging makeup—or not removing it properly—can lead to breakouts. Even if you’re exhausted at the end of the day, never skip removing your makeup. Use a gentle makeup remover or cleansing balm followed by a good cleanser. Also, make sure your makeup is non-comedogenic and clean your brushes regularly to avoid spreading bacteria.
13. Skipping Sunscreen or Using the Wrong Kind
Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin, but using the wrong one can cause breakouts. Heavy, greasy sunscreens can clog your pores, so look for oil-free or gel-based options. And don’t skip sunscreen altogether—sun damage can irritate your skin and make acne worse.
14. Underlying Medical Conditions
Persistent acne might be a sign of an underlying health issue, like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or other hormonal imbalances. If nothing seems to work and your acne is severe, it’s worth consulting a dermatologist or healthcare provider to rule out medical causes and get targeted treatment.
15. Smoking or Being Around Smoke
Cigarette smoke (and even secondhand smoke) can irritate your skin, cause inflammation, and slow down your skin’s healing process. This can lead to more breakouts and make existing acne worse. Quitting or avoiding smoke exposure is one of the best things you can do for your skin—and your overall health.
16. Not Giving Your Skincare Routine Enough Time
Switching products too often or expecting overnight results can sabotage your skin. Acne treatments take time to work—sometimes weeks or even months. Stick to a consistent routine and resist the urge to try every new product that promises a quick fix. Your patience will pay off with healthier skin.
Conclusion
Acne can feel overwhelming, but understanding the root causes is half the battle. By addressing these factors and making a few lifestyle adjustments, you’ll be on your way to clearer, happier skin. Which of these reasons surprised you the most?
