Understanding Acne: Causes, Dos, and Don’ts
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Acne is one of the most common skin concerns worldwide, affecting teenagers and adults alike. While it is often associated with adolescence, breakouts can occur at any age, and their causes can be far more complex than “just oily skin.” Understanding the root causes of acne and adopting the right skincare habits can go a long way in keeping your skin healthy and blemish-free.
Your skin naturally produces oil (sebum) to keep it hydrated and protected. However, when sebaceous glands become overactive, they produce excess oil, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Hormonal changes - especially during puberty, menstrual cycles, or stress - are common triggers for increased sebum production.
Dead skin cells are constantly shed from the surface of the skin. If these are not effectively removed, they can mix with excess sebum and block hair follicles, creating the perfect environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive.
The bacterium Cutibacterium acnes naturally lives on our skin, but when trapped inside clogged pores, it can multiply rapidly. This triggers inflammation and results in red, swollen pimples or pustules.
Androgens, a type of hormone, play a significant role in acne development. Higher androgen levels can lead to increased sebum production. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, or due to medical conditions like PCOS can contribute to stubborn acne.
While diet is not the sole cause of acne, certain foods - especially those high in refined sugar, dairy, and processed fats - can aggravate breakouts for some people. Lack of sleep, high stress levels, and inadequate hydration can also worsen skin health.
Heavy, greasy, or comedogenic skincare and makeup products can block pores and trigger breakouts. Not removing makeup before bed is another common culprit.
Pollution, heat, humidity, and exposure to certain chemicals can irritate the skin and clog pores. Sweat mixed with dirt and makeup can also increase the risk of acne.
The Dos for Clear, Healthy Skin
Wash your face twice a day with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Over-cleansing can strip the skin of natural oils and worsen breakouts, so be gentle.
After cleansing, apply a gentle, alcohol-free toner. Toners help remove any leftover impurities, tighten pores, balance skin’s pH, and prepare it to absorb moisturizer or treatment products more effectively.
Even oily and acne-prone skin needs hydration. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to maintain the skin’s barrier function without clogging pores.
Whether it’s sunscreen, makeup, or skincare, ensure they are labeled “non-comedogenic” to avoid pore blockages.
Incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats into your meals. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, nuts, and leafy greens support skin repair and resilience.
Stress can worsen acne by triggering hormonal fluctuations. Incorporate activities like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise into your daily routine.
Fabric surfaces can collect dirt, sweat, and oil, transferring them back to your skin. Change pillowcases at least twice a week.
Use a broad-spectrum, oil-free sunscreen daily. While some sunlight can temporarily dry out pimples, excessive exposure can cause inflammation and post-acne marks.
The Don’ts for Acne-Prone Skin
While exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, overdoing it can irritate and inflame the skin, worsening acne. Limit physical or chemical exfoliation to 1–2 times a week.
Squeezing pimples can push bacteria deeper into the skin, cause more inflammation, and lead to permanent scarring.
This traps oil, dirt, and bacteria against your skin, increasing the risk of clogged pores and breakouts. Always remove makeup thoroughly before bed.
Products with high alcohol content or abrasive particles can strip the skin of natural oils, triggering more oil production as a defense mechanism.
Many people with acne-prone skin skip moisturizer, thinking it will reduce oiliness. In reality, dehydrated skin can produce even more sebum to compensate.
Your hands carry oils, dirt, and bacteria. Touching your face transfers these to your skin, which can worsen acne.
If acne persists or is severe, consult a dermatologist. They can recommend treatments such as topical retinoids, antibiotics, or hormonal therapy depending on your skin’s needs.
Building an Acne-Friendly Skincare Routine
An effective skincare routine for acne-prone skin should focus on three core steps:
You can then layer on targeted treatments such as salicylic acid, niacinamide, or tea tree oil to control breakouts, followed by sunscreen in the daytime.
Consistency is key - acne treatments can take several weeks to show results, so patience is essential.
Acne can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can reduce breakouts and keep your skin healthy. Understanding your skin’s triggers, avoiding pore-clogging habits, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle are essential steps toward clearer skin.
And when it comes to keeping pores clean and fresh, our Dirt Away Facewash is a simple yet effective solution - designed to deeply cleanse and clear pores, helping your skin feel refreshed every day. Pair it with a soothing toner and lightweight moisturizer for a complete acne-friendly routine.