We all might have gone through a phase in our life when we were confused with the question ‘Why are there a lot of breakouts in my face’?

These breakouts often tend to pop up in a situation that we never expect.

Still confused how it came out? Still battling with the annoying acne?

Well, if you've done everything to get rid of your breakouts and still haven’t succeeded in it, then you’re at the right place.

Karepedia is here to help you identify the reasons behind your breakouts and also help you to manage it effectively by suggesting certain tips.

Breakouts - Why Why Why?

There are diverse reasons due to which you could have acne. Learning about these causes is significant for taking proper preventive measures against them. In this guide, we will briefly discuss about some causes of acne. Let’s explore them one by one.

• Fluctuations in Hormone Level Acnes are produced due to fluctuations in hormone level. Elevation in the level of androgen stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce oil in excess amounts. It often results in clogged pores and acne breakouts.

Acne often appears during conditions like menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels.During specific phases of their menstrual cycles,many women tend to have breakouts.

• Diet

Some researchers have suggested that particular types of foods like pasta, bread, and pastries can cause acne.

Eating foods high in glycemic index raises sugar level and insulin level and also this will increase sebum production causing inflammation in your skin. Failure to stick to a strict diet may also cause breakouts.

Research also found that caffeine can raise your cortisol levels, causing more acne due to increased oil. Drinking too much coffee can reduce your body’s insulin sensitivity, leading to more inflammation and acne.

People who have lots of dairy, especially with extra hormones and fats, are also at risk for acne.

• Dehydration

Dermatologists believe that adequately hydrated skin can prevent redness, blemishes, pimples, and congestion. This is because it regulates sebum production and purges impurities.

Our bodies require water to maintain proper functioning. Hydration keeps the skin moist and can contribute to preventing acne.

A 2018 study by Pubmed Health demonstrated that consuming ample water reduces skin dryness and promotes smoothness. Insufficient hydration prompts the skin to produce excess oil, which can lead to acne.

• Maintaining Poor Skin care routine

If one fails to cleanse the skin properly it can lead to the accumulation of dirt, oil, and dead skin cells, clogging pores and fostering bacterial growth.

Using harsh skincare products can aggravate acne by stripping the skin of its natural oils and causing irritation. One should try to maintain a good skin care routine to get healthy skin.

• Hereditary Factors

Heredity has a major role in determining the potential of an individual to have acne. If either parent or both have a history of acne, the chances of you developing the condition are higher. The particular genes that you may have gotten from your parents would influence your immune system and would make your skin acne-prone.

• Stress

Stress can lead to an array of changes in your body, and in response your body spikes the cortisol hormone levels to prepare for the stressful experience.

The side effect of this hormonal change is an increase in sebum production, leading to acne breakouts.Moreover, stress can disrupt sleep patterns, weaken the immune system, and impair skin barrier function, making it more susceptible to acne-causing bacteria.

• Medications

Usage of certain medications, including corticosteroids, lithium, and anticonvulsants, can induce acne as a side effect. These medications may disrupt hormone levels, increase oil production, or cause skin irritation, leading to breakouts.

• Environmental factors Exposure to environmental pollutants, such as airborne toxins and particulate matter, can exacerbate acne by triggering inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin. Humidity and excessive sweating can also contribute to clogged pores and bacterial growth, especially in hot, humid climates.

Ways to Combat Acne

Managing breakouts involves a combination of skincare practices, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes professional treatments. Now let’s discuss some effective ways to manage breakouts: BOX

• Use the right products for you

Each skin type is unique. What suits one skin type may not suit another. A method which can be used safely for treating acne in one person may sometimes cause inflammation and damage in another.So always ensure that you choose the right product that suits your skin type.

• Watch your Diet

Certain food items, especially those high in sugar and carbohydrates , may aggravate breakouts in some individuals. Try to lower the consumption of these foods and follow a healthy balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Keep your face clean

A proper skin care routine must be followed. One should wash one’s face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. This aids in the removal of excess oils, dirt, and other impurities that can accumulate in pores and lead to blemishes.

• Avoid touching your face

Your face can be contaminated when you touch it with your hands, which are normally covered with bacteria and dirt, and this can lead to acne. Trying to avoid touching your face needlessly is a must.

• Manage stress

Stress is one of the major causes of breakouts which in turn leads to hormonal imbalance and increased oil production. Try out stress-reducing techniques like exercising, meditation or deep breathing.

• Be patient and consistent

It could take some time before you see improvement in your acne treatment, thus, you have to be patient and consistent in your daily skincare routine. If you find that you're not having a positive effect or if your acne is getting worse, please don't hesitate to get advice from a dermatologist.

• Stay hydrated

Water is the prerequisite of your whole body functions and these include the liver that controls hormone production. The hormones are among the factors that contribute to acne by increasing sebum production.Drinking water does not just refresh you but also helps maintain your health in the best possible way.