5 Surprising Causes of Acne and How to Address Them

Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While hormonal changes, genetics, and environmental factors are commonly known as the causes of acne, there are also some surprising factors that contribute to breakouts. These causes may include diet, stress, skincare products, medication, and even your smartphone. In this blog post, we will explore these surprising causes of acne in-depth and provide tips on how to address them effectively. By understanding and addressing these lesser-known factors, you can take better care of your skin and reduce the occurrence of acne.

1. Stress

Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. While there are many known causes of acne, one of the most surprising causes of acne that can contribute to breakouts is stress. Stress has been linked to acne in multiple studies, with researchers suggesting that the link may be due to the way stress affects hormones and the immune system. Understanding the relationship between acne and stress can help individuals take steps to manage stress and reduce the occurrence of breakouts. In this section, we will explore the science behind the connection between acne and stress, as well as provide practical tips for managing stress to improve overall skin health.

Link Between Stress and Acne

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that stress can be a significant contributor to acne breakouts. This link between stress and acne is due to the way stress can affect the body’s hormone levels and immune system, both of which can contribute to the development of acne.

One of the primary ways that stress can cause acne is through the production of cortisol, a hormone that is released in response to stress. Cortisol triggers the release of other hormones, including androgens, which can stimulate the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce more oil. When excess oil combines with dead skin cells and bacteria, it can clog pores and lead to the formation of pimples.

In addition to hormonal changes, stress can also weaken the immune system, making the skin more vulnerable to infections and inflammation. Stress can also trigger inflammation throughout the body, including the skin, which can further exacerbate acne symptoms.

Furthermore, stress can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as poor diet, lack of sleep, and inadequate skincare, all of which can contribute to the development of acne.

To address the link between stress and acne, individuals can take steps to manage their stress levels. Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help regulate cortisol levels, while exercise and a healthy diet can also help alleviate stress and improve skin health. Additionally, practicing good skincare habits, such as using non-comedogenic products and washing the face regularly, can also help prevent breakouts.

How Stress Can Impact Hormone Levels, Inflammation, and Sebum Production

Stress can impact hormone levels, inflammation, and sebum production, all of which can contribute to the development of acne.

When the body is under stress, it triggers the release of the hormone cortisol. Cortisol stimulates the release of other hormones, including androgens, which are known to increase sebum production. Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. Excess sebum production can lead to clogged pores and the development of acne.

Stress can also lead to inflammation in the body, including the skin. Inflammation is a response of the immune system to injury, infection, or irritation. It can cause redness, swelling, and pain. Chronic stress can lead to a persistent state of inflammation in the body, which can trigger acne breakouts.

Furthermore, stress can impact hormone levels and disrupt the balance of hormones in the body. This disruption can affect the skin’s ability to regenerate and repair itself, making it more prone to breakouts. Additionally, stress can increase the production of cortisol, which can affect the skin’s collagen production, leading to wrinkles and other signs of aging.

Overall, stress can have a significant impact on hormone levels, inflammation, and sebum production, all of which can contribute to the development of acne. Managing stress levels through techniques such as meditation, exercise, and adequate sleep can help regulate hormone levels, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health.

Tips for Managing Stress

There are many effective ways to manage stress, and incorporating stress-reducing activities into your daily routine can help regulate hormone levels, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health. Here are some tips for managing stress:

Exercise. Regular physical activity can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mood. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters, and can also help regulate hormone levels.
Mindfulness. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. These practices can help regulate cortisol levels and improve overall mental wellbeing.
Relaxation Techniques. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as yoga, tai chi, or progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. These techniques can help regulate cortisol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health.
Adequate Sleep. Getting enough restful sleep is essential for managing stress and improving skin health. Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress levels and inflammation, which can contribute to acne breakouts.
Healthy Diet. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help regulate hormone levels, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health. Avoiding processed and sugary foods and eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help keep stress levels in check and improve overall skin health.

In summary, managing stress through exercise, mindfulness, relaxation techniques, adequate sleep, and a healthy diet can help regulate hormone levels, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can reduce the impact of stress on your skin and prevent acne breakouts.

2. Medications

One of the lesser-known surprising causes of acne is the use of certain medications. Many medications can affect hormone levels, immune function, and skin health, all of which can lead to the development of acne. Understanding the relationship between medications and acne can help individuals take steps to manage their medication use and prevent breakouts. In this section, we will explore the science behind the connection between medications and acne, as well as provide practical tips for managing acne while taking medications.

Medications that Can Cause Acne

There are several medications that can cause or exacerbate acne. These medications can affect hormone levels, immune function, and skin health, leading to the development of acne. Some of the medications that can cause acne include:

Steroids. Anabolic steroids, corticosteroids, and other steroid medications can cause acne by increasing sebum production and disrupting hormone levels.
Hormonal Contraceptives. Birth control pills, patches, and other hormonal contraceptives can cause acne in some people. Hormonal contraceptives can affect hormone levels, leading to an increase in sebum production and the development of acne.
Lithium. Lithium is a medication used to treat bipolar disorder, but it can also cause acne by affecting hormone levels and increasing sebum production.
Anticonvulsants. Some anticonvulsant medications, such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, can cause acne by affecting hormone levels and increasing sebum production.
Immunosuppressants. Immunosuppressant medications, such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus, can cause acne by suppressing the immune system, making the skin more vulnerable to infections and inflammation.
Anti-Depressants. Certain types of antidepressants, such as lithium, can cause acne by affecting hormone levels and increasing sebum production.

Overall, these medications can disrupt hormone levels, increase sebum production, and affect immune function, all of which can contribute to the development of acne. If you are experiencing acne while taking any of these medications, it is important to speak with your GP to determine the best course of action. In some cases, adjusting the medication dose or switching to a different medication may help alleviate acne symptoms.

How Medications Affect Hormone Levels and Sebum Production

Many medications can affect hormone levels and sebum production, leading to the development of acne. Here is a brief explanation of how some of the medications mentioned earlier can impact these processes:

Steroids. Steroids, both anabolic and corticosteroids, can affect hormone levels by mimicking the effects of testosterone. This can lead to an increase in sebum production, which can clog pores and contribute to the development of acne.
Hormonal Contraceptives. Hormonal contraceptives can affect hormone levels by altering the balance of estrogen and progesterone in the body. Some types of hormonal contraceptives can increase the levels of androgens in the body, which can lead to an increase in sebum production and the development of acne.
Lithium. Lithium can affect hormone levels by inhibiting the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) from the pituitary gland. This can lead to an increase in the production of androgens, which can contribute to the development of acne.
Anti-Convulsants. Some anticonvulsant medications, such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, can affect hormone levels by increasing the production of androgens. This can lead to an increase in sebum production and the development of acne.
Immunosuppressants. Immunosuppressant medications, such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus, can affect hormone levels by suppressing the activity of the adrenal gland. This can lead to an increase in the production of androgens, which can contribute to the development of acne.

Overall, these medications can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in the body, leading to an increase in sebum production and the development of acne. If you are experiencing acne while taking any of these medications, it is important to speak with your GP to determine the best course of action.

Tips for Addressing Acne Caused by Medications

If you are experiencing acne caused by medications, there are several things you can do to help manage your symptoms. Here are some tips:

Talk to Your GP. If you suspect that your medication is causing acne, speak with your GP. They may be able to adjust your medication dosage, switch you to a different medication, or prescribe additional acne treatments.
Practice Good Skincare. Good skincare can help reduce acne caused by medications. Use gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers and moisturisers, and avoid products that contain alcohol or fragrances. Also, avoid scrubbing your skin too hard or picking at your acne, as this can make your symptoms worse.
Use Acne Treatments. Over-the-counter acne treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, can help reduce acne caused by medications. These products work by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. If your acne is severe, your GP may prescribe stronger acne medications.
Consider Hormone Therapy. If your acne is caused by hormonal contraceptives, your GP may recommend switching to a different type of birth control or adding a hormone therapy to your treatment plan. Hormone therapy can help regulate hormone levels and reduce acne symptoms.
Make Lifestyle Changes. Making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress, can also help reduce acne caused by medications. These changes can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development of acne.

Overall, acne caused by medications can be frustrating, but there are several things you can do to manage your symptoms. Speak with your GP and follow a good skincare routine, use acne treatments, consider hormone therapy, and make lifestyle changes to help reduce your acne symptoms.

3. Diet

While genetics and hormones play a significant role in the development of acne, one of the surprising causes of acne is diet. Several studies have examined the link between diet and the causes of acne, and while the research is still ongoing, there is evidence to suggest that certain dietary factors may contribute to the development of acne. In this section, we will explore the relationship between acne and diet, including the foods that may trigger acne and those that may help prevent it. We will also provide tips on how to modify your diet to help manage your acne symptoms.

How Diet Can Impact Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that affects many people, especially during adolescence. While it is often associated with hormonal changes and genetics, research has shown that diet can also play a significant role in the development and severity of acne. In addition to the well-known links to high-glycemic-index foods and dairy products, there are other ways that diet can impact acne.

How Diet Impacts Acne

Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in foods such as fatty fish, nuts, and seeds, and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a key component of acne, and consuming more omega-3s may help reduce inflammation and improve acne symptoms.
Zinc. Zinc is an essential mineral that is important for healthy skin. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can be beneficial for acne. Foods that are high in zinc include oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds.
Vitamin A. Vitamin A is important for the health of the skin and has been shown to be effective in treating acne. Foods that are high in vitamin A include sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach.
Probiotics. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for the digestive system and overall health. They have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce acne. Probiotics can be found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi.
Sugar and Processed Foods. While the link between high-glycemic-index foods and acne is well-known, it is also important to avoid excessive sugar and processed foods. These foods can cause a spike in insulin levels, which can lead to inflammation and contribute to acne.
Dairy Alternatives. While dairy products have been linked to acne, it is important to note that not all dairy alternatives are created equal. Plant-based milks and yogurts may be a better choice for people with acne, as they are lower in hormones and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Summary

diet can impact acne in various ways beyond the well-known links to high-glycemic-index foods and dairy products. Consuming more omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, vitamin A, and probiotics, while avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods, can help reduce inflammation and improve acne symptoms. Additionally, choosing dairy alternatives may also be beneficial.

Lesser-Known Dietary Causes of Acne

In addition to the well-known dietary triggers for acne such as high-glycemic-index foods and dairy products, there are some lesser-known dietary causes of acne.

Here Are Some Examples

Iodine. Iodine is an essential mineral that is found in many foods, including seaweed, seafood, and iodised salt. However, excessive iodine intake has been linked to acne. This is because iodine can stimulate the production of oil in the skin, which can clog pores and lead to acne.
Histamine. Histamine is a compound that is produced by the body in response to allergens or irritants. However, some people are more sensitive to histamine, which can lead to inflammation and acne. Foods that are high in histamine include fermented foods, aged cheeses, and wine.
FODMAPs. FODMAPs are a type of carbohydrate that can be difficult to digest for some people. When FODMAPs are not properly digested, they can ferment in the gut and produce gases and other byproducts that can contribute to inflammation and acne. Foods that are high in FODMAPs include wheat, garlic, onions, and some fruits.
Soy. While soy is often touted as a healthy alternative to dairy, it can also contribute to acne in some people. This is because soy contains phytoestrogens, which can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to acne.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids. While omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for acne, excessive intake of omega-6 fatty acids can contribute to inflammation and acne. Omega-6 fatty acids are found in many vegetable oils, such as corn oil and soybean oil, as well as in processed and fried foods.

It is important to note that everyone’s body is different and may react differently to certain foods. If you suspect that your diet may be contributing to your acne, it is a good idea to keep a food diary and track your symptoms. This can help you identify any triggers and make changes to your diet accordingly.

How the Foods Above Can Affect Inflammation and Sebum Production

The foods mentioned above can affect inflammation and sebum production in different ways, which can contribute to the development and severity of acne.

Iodine: Excessive intake of iodine can stimulate the production of oil in the skin, which can contribute to the development of acne.
Histamine: High levels of histamine in the body can lead to inflammation and contribute to the development of acne.
FODMAPs: FODMAPs can ferment in the gut and produce gases and other byproducts that can contribute to inflammation and acne.
Soy: Phytoestrogens in soy can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to increased sebum production in the skin, which can contribute to the development of acne.

In summary, the foods mentioned above can affect inflammation and sebum production in different ways, which can contribute to the development and severity of acne. By making dietary changes that reduce inflammation and regulate sebum production, it may be possible to improve acne symptoms.

Tips for Addressing Acne Caused by Diet

If you suspect that your acne is caused by your diet, there are several things you can do to address it. Here are some tips and, just to let you know, I have included some of the better-known dietary causes of acne in case some of you are not aware of them.

Acne Caused by Diet

Keep a Food Diary. Start by keeping a food diary to track what you eat and any changes in your skin. This can help you identify any trigger foods that may be contributing to your acne.
Reduce High-Glycemic-Index Foods. Reduce your intake of high-glycemic-index foods, such as sugary and processed foods. Instead, choose whole, unprocessed foods that are rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Consider Eliminating Dairy. If you suspect that dairy may be contributing to your acne, consider eliminating it from your diet for a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve.
Increase Intake of Anti-Inflammatory Foods. Increase your intake of anti-inflammatory foods, such as fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts. These foods contain anti-inflammatory compounds, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Consider Supplements. Consider taking supplements that can help regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation, such as zinc, vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Be Mindful of Iodine Intake. Be mindful of your intake of iodine-rich foods, such as seaweed and seafood, and consider reducing your intake if you suspect that it may be contributing to your acne.
Address Gut Health. Address any gut health issues by incorporating probiotic-rich foods, such as fermented vegetables and yogurt, into your diet. This can help regulate the balance of bacteria in the gut and reduce inflammation in the body.
Consult Your GP. If your acne is severe or persistent, consider consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who can help you develop a personalised plan to address your acne through diet and lifestyle changes.

Remember…

everyone’s body is different and may react differently to certain foods. It may take some trial and error to identify the specific dietary triggers that are contributing to your acne. By making changes to your diet and lifestyle, you may be able to improve your acne symptoms and achieve clearer, healthier skin.

4. Environmental Factors

Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages and can have a significant impact on an individual’s physical appearance, self-esteem, and quality of life. While many factors, such as hormones and genetics, play a role in the development of acne, there is growing evidence that environmental factors can also contribute to the development and severity of the condition. Environmental factors can include a wide range of external factors, such as pollution, climate, and lifestyle factors, that can affect the skin’s health and function. Understanding how environmental factors are one of the surprising causes of acne can help individuals make informed decisions about their skincare and lifestyle choices to manage and prevent the condition.

How Environmental Factors Can Impact Acne

Environmental factors can impact acne in various ways. Here are some of the most common ways:

Pollution. Exposure to environmental pollutants, such as particulate matter, can lead to oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin. This can contribute to the development and severity of acne.
Climate. Climate can also affect acne, with hot and humid environments contributing to increased sebum production, which can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Additionally, cold and dry environments can also contribute to acne by drying out the skin and disrupting its natural barrier function.
UV Radiation. While UV radiation can have some benefits for the skin, excessive exposure can lead to inflammation and damage to the skin’s barrier function, which can contribute to the development of acne.
Lifestyle Factors. Lifestyle factors, such as stress, lack of sleep, and poor diet, can also impact acne. Chronic stress and lack of sleep can lead to hormonal imbalances and inflammation, which can contribute to the development of acne. A poor diet that is high in sugar, processed foods, and dairy products can also contribute to acne.
Cosmetics. Certain cosmetics, particularly those that are heavy or occlusive, can contribute to the development of acne by clogging pores and trapping bacteria and sebum in the skin.

In summary, environmental factors can impact acne in various ways. Exposure to pollutants, climate, UV radiation, and certain lifestyle factors can contribute to the development and severity of acne. By being mindful of these environmental factors and taking steps to mitigate their impact, individuals can manage and prevent acne breakouts. This can include practicing good skincare habits, reducing exposure to environmental pollutants, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and using non-comedogenic cosmetics.

How the Above Factors Can Affect Sebum Production and Pore-Clogging

Environmental factors can impact sebum production and pore-clogging in several ways:

Pollution. Exposure to environmental pollutants can lead to oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin, which can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. This can increase the amount of oil on the skin’s surface, leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts.
Climate. Hot and humid environments can also increase sebum production, leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Additionally, cold and dry environments can lead to skin dehydration, which can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum to compensate. This can also lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts.
UV Radiation. UV radiation can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, which can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Additionally, excessive exposure to UV radiation can damage the skin’s barrier function, leading to increased water loss and skin dehydration, which can also stimulate sebum production.
Lifestyle Factors. Chronic stress and lack of sleep can disrupt hormonal balance and increase inflammation, which can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. A poor diet that is high in sugar, processed foods, and dairy products can also contribute to increased sebum production and clogged pores.
Cosmetics. Certain cosmetics, particularly those that are heavy or occlusive, can trap bacteria and sebum in the skin, leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts.

Summary

One of the surprising causes of acne is environmental factors. Environmental factors can impact sebum production and pore-clogging by stimulating the sebaceous glands to produce more oil and trapping bacteria and sebum in the pores. By being mindful of these environmental factors and taking steps to reduce their impact, individuals can reduce their risk of developing acne breakouts. This can include using non-comedogenic skincare products, practicing good skincare habits, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and reducing exposure to environmental pollutants.

Tips for Addressing Acne Caused by Environmental Factors

Here are some tips for addressing acne caused by environmental factors:

Wear Protective Clothing. To reduce exposure to environmental pollutants, wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats. This can help to minimise the amount of pollution that comes into contact with your skin.
Use Air Filters. Air filters can help to remove pollutants from the air in your home or workplace, reducing the amount of pollution that you are exposed to. This can help to reduce inflammation and damage to the skin’s barrier function that can contribute to acne.
Practice Good Skincare Habits. Good skincare habits can help to reduce the impact of environmental factors on acne. This includes washing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, using non-comedogenic skincare products, and avoiding heavy or occlusive cosmetics that can clog pores.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle. A healthy lifestyle can help to reduce the impact of environmental factors on acne. This includes getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and eating a balanced diet that is low in sugar and processed foods.
Seek Professional Treatment. If acne persists despite these measures, it may be necessary to seek professional treatment. A dermatologist can recommend prescription medications, such as topical or oral antibiotics, retinoids, or hormonal treatments, that can help to reduce inflammation and acne breakouts caused by environmental factors.

In summary, addressing the causes of acne and environmental factors requires a multifaceted approach that includes protective measures, good skincare habits, a healthy lifestyle, and professional treatment if necessary. By being mindful of these factors and taking steps to reduce their impact, individuals can manage and prevent acne breakouts caused by environmental factors.

5. Undiagnosed Medical Conditions

While many causes of acne are well-known, such as hormonal changes, genetics, diet, and environmental factors, there are also some undiagnosed medical conditions that contribute to the causes of acne. These conditions may not be immediately apparent, and the symptoms of acne may be the only visible sign of an underlying health issue. Identifying and treating these medical conditions can be critical to managing and preventing acne breakouts in some individuals. In this section, we will explore some of the undiagnosed medical conditions that can cause or worsen acne and how they can be managed.

Undiagnosed Medical Conditions that Can Cause Acne

Here are some unknown medical conditions that add to the surprising causes of acne:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women, characterised by an excess of male hormones called androgens. These hormones can cause an increase in sebum production, leading to acne breakouts. PCOS can also cause other symptoms such as irregular periods, weight gain, and hair growth on the face and body.
Cushing’s syndrome: Cushing’s syndrome is a hormonal disorder caused by an overproduction of the hormone cortisol. Cortisol can increase sebum production, leading to acne breakouts. Other symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome include weight gain, muscle weakness, and mood changes.
Adrenal hyperplasia: Adrenal hyperplasia is a genetic disorder that affects the adrenal glands, which produce hormones such as cortisol and androgens. An overproduction of androgens can cause an increase in sebum production, leading to acne breakouts. Other symptoms of adrenal hyperplasia can include irregular periods, infertility, and male-pattern hair growth in women.

In addition to these conditions, other medical conditions that can cause or worsen acne breakouts include thyroid disorders, insulin resistance, and certain medications such as corticosteroids and lithium.

It’s important to note that not everyone with acne will have an underlying medical condition. However, if acne persists despite lifestyle changes and topical treatments, it may be worth discussing the possibility of an underlying medical condition with a GP. Identifying and treating these conditions can be critical to managing and preventing acne breakouts in some individuals.

How the Above Medical Conditions Can Affect Hormone Levels and Sebum Production

The medical conditions mentioned above can affect hormone levels and sebum production, leading to acne breakouts. Here’s how:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS have higher than normal levels of androgens, which are male hormones that are also present in females. These hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce more oil or sebum. This excess sebum production can lead to clogged pores, resulting in the formation of acne.
Cushing’s syndrome: Cushing’s syndrome is caused by an overproduction of cortisol, a hormone that is produced by the adrenal gland. Excess cortisol can increase the production of androgens, which, as mentioned above, can lead to an increase in sebum production and acne breakouts.
Adrenal hyperplasia: Adrenal hyperplasia is a genetic disorder that can cause an overproduction of androgens. As with PCOS and Cushing’s syndrome, this can lead to an increase in sebum production and the development of acne.

In all of these medical conditions, the hormonal imbalances can cause changes in the skin that contribute to acne breakouts. When there is an overproduction of androgens or cortisol, the sebaceous glands in the skin can become overactive, leading to an excess of sebum production. This excess sebum can then clog pores, leading to the development of acne lesions.

It’s important to note that hormonal imbalances are not the only cause of acne, and not everyone with a hormonal condition will develop acne. However, for some individuals, addressing the underlying medical condition may be necessary to manage their acne breakouts. A GP can work with individuals to determine the best course of action for managing their acne and any underlying medical conditions.

Tips for Addressing Acne Caused by Undiagnosed Medical Conditions

Acne can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, stress, and certain medications. However, in some cases, acne may be a symptom of an undiagnosed medical condition. Here are some tips for addressing acne caused by undiagnosed medical conditions:

Get a Medical Evaluation. Acne can be a symptom of several medical conditions, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Cushing’s syndrome, and adrenal gland disorders. A medical evaluation can help identify any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your acne.
Consult a Dermatologist. If you have persistent acne that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments or that is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist can help you identify the underlying cause of your acne and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Consider Lifestyle Changes. Some medical conditions that can cause acne, such as PCOS, are associated with insulin resistance. Making lifestyle changes, such as adopting a low-carbohydrate diet and getting regular exercise, may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce acne symptoms.
Follow a Skincare Routine. While treating the underlying medical condition is essential, it’s also important to follow a skincare routine to manage acne symptoms. Use gentle cleansers, avoid harsh scrubs or abrasive treatments, and use non-comedogenic products to prevent clogging of pores.
Be Patient. Treating acne caused by an underlying medical condition can take time. Be patient and stick to your treatment plan, and communicate regularly with your GP or dermatologist to make any necessary adjustments.

Surprising Causes of Acne

In conclusion, acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While genetics, hormones, and lifestyle choices play a significant role in the development of acne, there are also some surprising causes of acne that can contribute to its occurrence. Poor gut health, air pollution, stress, diet, and skincare products are lesser-known factors that can trigger acne.

Fortunately, there are various ways to address these surprising causes of acne. Eating a healthy diet, practicing stress-reducing techniques, using non-comedogenic skincare products, improving air quality, and taking care of gut health are some effective strategies that can help prevent and reduce acne.

By identifying and addressing the underlying causes of acne, it is possible to improve skin health and prevent breakouts. While acne can be frustrating and challenging to manage, with the right approach and a bit of patience, clear and healthy skin is achievable.

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5 Surprising Causes of Acne and How to Address Them